Colorectal cancer other diagnostic studies
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To view the other diagnostic studies of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), click here
To view the other diagnostic studies of hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), click here
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Saarah T. Alkhairy, M.D.
Overview
A biopsy can be performed when a suspected lesion is found on colonoscopy.
Other Diagnostic Studies
Biopsy
A biopsy can be performed when a suspected lesion is found on colonoscopy. The biopsy specimen is examined for histologic changes and tissue differentiation. Well differentiated lesions have a good prognosis compared to poorly and undifferentiated lesions.
Genetic changes in the cancer can also be observed, for example, changes in the KRAS or BRAF gene. Certain genetic mutations may not respond to a particular treatment.
Microsatellite instability (MSI) testing may be performed to identify patients with HNPCC.
Genetic Testing
Genetic counseling and genetic testing is a screening modality for families who may have a hereditary form of colon cancer, such as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
Stool DNA testing
This detects DNA shed into the stool from the cells of pre-malignant adenomas and cancers. The DNA is not degraded during the digestive process and remain stable in the stool.