Causes and risk factors
The cells undergo an abnormal and uncontrolled proliferation, . Eventually, these clusters of cells can lead to formation of a tumor or mass. What causes this abnormal growth is still a mystery. However, the tedious researches and study of various cases has have laid down certain risk factors which can predispose a person to cancer. Genetic factors head the list. Many cancers are caused due to certain abnormality or mutation in the genes, which stimulate the cells to undergo an abnormal proliferation. In some families, it is seen as hereditary. People with weak immune system are more prone for to cancer. People suffering from polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases, or ulcerative colitis increases the risk for developing cancer. High fat consumption, low low-fibrer diet, tobacco addiction and cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption in excess are the worst predisposing factors. Obesity equally adds to it.
Clinical presentation:
Indolent growth of the abnormal cells, in its initially stage does not pose any noticeable signs and symptoms in the body. It is a moderately invasive type. The mass can trigger inflammation of appendix and hence while investigating for appendicitis, cancer of cecum cancer can be accidentally detected. Some, over a period of time, can come up with health issues. At On most of the occasions, the patient usually comes up with vague symptoms like body ache, fatigue, and tenderness all over the body. A noticeable change in weight is complained by the patient or is brought into notice by the known ones. while a few can come up with complaints of pain in the abdomen especially in the lower right side. Alteration in the bowel habits or difficulty in passing stools or a complaint of palpable mass in the abdomen is seen. Bloated feeling along with frequent formation n of flatus can occur. In cases where the pathology has advanced, i.e., metastasis of the cells might have has occurred and various other symptoms pertaining to that system or organ can also be seen, ; however, this distant metastasis is seen at a very slow pace in cases of malignancy of the cecum.
Investigations:
Taking into consideration the complaints mentioned by the patient, a physical examination of the patient is carried out. Accordingly, certain sets of investigations are advised. Colonoscopy is the a diagnostic tool for detection of any abnormality. Ultrasonography of the abdomen and pelvis along with CT scan is advised. If any abnormal growth or mass is detected, a biopsy is done which will help to differentiate between the benign and neoplastic cells. If the cancerous growth is confirmed, certain other sets of investigations like routine blood test; and blood markers for cancer are done. A complete scan (PET scan) is the most essential investigation tool mandatorily advised in cancerous condition.
Treatment:
Staging of cancer, (i.e., advancement and spread of pathology) is the essential criteria for formatting formulating the treatment plan. Surgical intervention comprises of polypectomy procedure. In cases if any abnormal mass is too large, right hemicolectomy is the choice of treatment. Radiation treatment along with administration of chemotherapeutic agents is done.
