Treatment of Colon Cancer at Cancer Treatment Centers of America

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Colon Cancer Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of colon and rectal cancer is largely dependent on routine screening and physical examinations. A routine physical exam includes palpation (touching and inspecting) of the abdomen for any painful areas and for masses (lumps or tumors).  A rectal examination includes testing the feces for blood with a fecal occult blood test (FOB) and palpating for masses. 

Colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy are two imaging tests used for diagnosing colon and rectal cancer. A colonoscopy allows visualization of the entire colon while the sidmoidoscopy allows for visualization of the lower large intestine (colon) and rectum.  In these procedures a hollow instrument called a scope is used.  The scope allows the physician to see the colon. During these procedures it is possible to collect tissue samples for biopsy; remove polyps with electrocautery; and, perform laser therapy. 

Blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) and liver function tests, may also be done. The CBC tests for anemia.  Anemia would be indicative of how much bleeding has occurred and the body’s response to that blood loss.  Liver function tests measure how long it takes the liquid portion of blood to clot and whether or not the liver and bones are diseased.  

If colon or rectal cancer is found, more tests will be done to determine the stage of the cancer. Computerized tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the affected areas may be done. At times a positron emission tomography (PET) scan may be used.

At Cancer Treatment Centers of America, they offer integrative, whole person care. Contact one of their representatives all day, every day by phone or online chat. Cancer Treatment Centers of America has Hospitals in Philadelphia Pennsylvania, Zion Illinois, Tulsa Oklahoma, and Goodyear Arizona. For more information on their integrative treatment options for colon cancer, call today.

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