Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis

Colorectal cancer is a malignant tumor originating from the mucosa of the colon or rectum. In its early stages, it usually presents no obvious symptoms and is easily overlooked. If not diagnosed and treated in time, cancer cells may invade the deeper layers of the intestinal wall and even metastasize to distant organs such as the liver and lungs, leading to a poor prognosis. Scientific and effective diagnostic methods are the foundation for detecting early lesions and guiding treatment. Clinically, multiple examination methods are often combined for comprehensive assessment.

Diagnostic Basis

Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosing colorectal cancer. Through colonoscopy, doctors can directly observe lesions inside the intestinal cavity, identify polyps or tumors, and take biopsies for pathological analysis to confirm the diagnosis. Colonoscopy can not only detect early cancerous changes but also prevent cancer progression by removing polyps.

Imaging Examinations
Imaging examinations such as CT, MRI, and endoscopic ultrasound are very important for evaluating the extent of tumors and lymph node metastasis. CT scans can reveal intestinal wall thickening and tumor invasion of surrounding tissues, while MRI has advantages in staging rectal cancer. PET-CT can help determine distant metastases.

Blood Biomarker Testing
Elevated levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) in the blood suggest tumor activity. However, their sensitivity is limited when used alone, and they are usually combined with other examinations.

Molecular Diagnostic Techniques
In recent years, genetic testing and molecular biomarkers have been increasingly applied in the diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of colorectal cancer, aiding in the development of personalized treatment plans.

Biopsy and Pathological Examination
Pathological analysis of biopsy tissue is the ultimate basis for confirming colorectal cancer. By observing the morphology of cancer cells under a microscope, the cancer type and grade can be determined, providing guidance for treatment selection.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis of colorectal cancer relies on the comprehensive application of multiple methods. Experts at the United Life International Medical Center emphasize that regular colonoscopy screening and timely diagnosis are key to improving treatment success rates. Early detection and early treatment are essential for improving prognosis.