Colon CT Appearances
Colon Cancer CT Findings
- Discrete soft-tissue mass that narrows the colonic lumen
- Large masses may undergo central necrosis and appear as a soft-tissue mass with central low attenuation or rarely air attenuation
- Focal colonic wall thickening and luminal narrowing
- Virtual colonoscopy with air distended colon is ideal for lesion detection
- Without proper prep it is easy to overcall or undercall colon cancer on CT
Other Information About Colon Cancer
Etiology:
- Generally unknown, although hereditary factors are not uncommon
- Family history of colon cancer
Epidemiology:
- More common in Alaskan Natives and African Americans
Presentation:
- Rectal bleeding
- Abdominal pain
Prognosis:
The 5-year overall survival rate for colon cancer:
- Localized: 91%
- Regional: 73%
- Distant: 13%
- All SEER stages: 63%
Related Pearls: Colon Cancer