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Anal Fissure Therapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Two years ago I had cancer of the anus and was treated with chemo and radiation but I am still having symptoms. My physician says it is a fissure, but the symptoms are like the cancer had been. I have stool with blood...
Anal Fissure Therapy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am a hospice nurse working with an elderly patient who has excessive mucous from his stoma for over a year, and which causes erosion of the stoma seal. He has to change the seal several times a day. He is very...
Anal Sex After Treatment for Anal Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I received chemotherapy and radiation for anal cancer in 2006. As a gay man, is it safe to resume anal intercourse? Najjia N. Mahmoud, MD, Assistant Professor of Surgery at the Hospital of the University of...
Anal Sphincter Preservation or Replacement after Rectal Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My brother was operated on for rectal cancer and had the anal sphincter removed. I was wondering if you know if anyone does rectal and sphincter reconstruction? Thank you very much.Najjia N. Mahmoud, MD, Assistant...
Are pets a concern during cancer treatment? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I was just diagnosed with colon cancer and I am about to begin chemotherapy. Will my "house pets" (cat) cause any problems during chemotherapy? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Medical...
Can hemorrhoids lead to rectal or colon cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," Can hemorrhoids lead to rectal or colon cancer? Thank you. James D. Lewis, MD, MSCE, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Senior Scholar at the Center for Clinical Epidemiology and...
Can Irritable Bowel Syndrome lead to Colon Cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am 33-year-old female diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome about 10 years ago. Can my condition lead to colon cancer? Dr. Timothy Hoops, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine in the...
Can surgery spread cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My husband was diagnosed with Stage III colon cancer-he has had chemo and radiation. He developed incisional hernias and is scheduled to have them repaired. I am paranoid about this surgery because someone told me...
Cancerous Polyp - Is Surgery Required? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I had my first colonoscopy last month at age 45. A malignant polyp was found and removed. I was told that I had a good chance it was contained to that polyp. However, because of my age and family history of colon...
CEA and the Oncoscint Scan Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am hoping that you will be able to steer me in the right direction. I am a 26 year old female diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer in '96. My CEA has risen in the past 4 months from 0.4 to 3.7, to 5.8 and...
CEA as a screening tool Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I have a question about the CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) blood test. If this test is done to determine if cancer has returned in a patient, then why can't this test be done FIRST? I wonder if the CEA blood test...
CEA Level Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," How long should it take for someone's CEA level to return to normal post surgery for colon cancer? Thank you, RH Todd Doyle, MD, OncoLink Editorial Assistant, responds: ...
CEA Levels and Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," What is a CEA test, how accurate or dependable is it? Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Gastroenterology Division at the University of Pennsylvania and...
Cetuximab for Stage III Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My father was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer earlier this month. He had surgery to remove the cancerous portion of the colon. He then consulted two doctors; one suggested using cetuximab in combination with the...
Change in stool caliber Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I'm a 57-year-old female. I was treated for breast cancer 9 years ago. For the past 9-12 months I've had a change in bowel habits in the form of narrow stool. (No other symptoms.) Six months ago my internist...
Chemotherapy and Follow Up After B2 Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I was diagnosed with stage II colon cancer in September 2000 at age 39. 21 lymph nodes were removed, all negative. No apparent spread. Angiolymphatic invasion present; B2 tumor. Bowel resection surgery...
Chemotherapy for Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the Colon Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I was wondering what you could tell me about Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the colon and a new treatment using CPT11-5FU-LUKOVORAN? Thanks, R.L. James P. Stevenson, MD, Assistant...
Clinical presentations of colon cancers Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I would like to know the differences, signs and symptoms, that patients present with left sided, right- sided and sigmoid cancers. Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine in the...
Colon cancer screening for at risk children Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My husband was diagnosed with colon cancer (stage 4) in 1998 at the age of 34 and had a total colectomy at the University of Pennsylvania. He had chemotherapy twice. He has been cancer free, even though he...
Colon Cancer Screening Methods for Young People with Family History Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What is the most efficient and reliable method of screening, and is it possible for screening to be done too early in life for those with a history of colon cancer in the family?Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Clinical...
Colon Cancer Screening Tests Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am at high risk for colon cancer because my mother had colon cancer at age 37, my maternal great aunt had colon cancer, and my father's mother died of colon cancer. My question is if someone is at high...
Colonic Enemas and Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I suffer from chronic constipation. My mother, who also has suffered from constipation, has recently been diagnosed with colon cancer. I have recently found that colonics help alleviate the symptoms, but I am unsure...
Colonoscopy After Polyp Removal Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My father underwent a colonoscopy at age 70. Polyps were removed. How often should he have a colonoscopy? Thank you, CG Dr. Timothy Hoops, Clinical Assistant Professor of...
Considering genetic testing for colon and breast cancers Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am a 48 yr.old white female who was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the colon contained within a polyp. I have a strong family history. My father died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 79. My mother was...
Correlation with uterine, colon and breast cancers Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Is there any correlation with uterine, colon and breast cancers? My mother-in-law has had all three. She is currently anemic.Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Gastroenterology...
Cutting Edge Cancer Treatments Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am currently being treated with oxaliplatin for metastatic colon cancer in the liver. Where do you think the most promising future colon cancer help will come from angiogenesis inhibitors, monoclonal...
Deciding if Postoperative Therapy is Needed Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Would you advise or think it necessary for any treatment following a colorectal resection for the following: adenocarcinoma, arising within a tubulovillous adenoma with high grade dysplasia, proximal and distal...
Detecting HNPCC Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My family history involves non-polyp colon cancer: How is this type of cancer detected before it is too late if there are no polyps evident? My father had a "clean" colonoscopy 2 years prior to his diagnosis with...
Diet and the prevention of colon cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What role does diet play in the prevention of colon cancer? Thanks. Katrina Claghorn, MS, RD, registered dietitian at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania,...
Do you need a colostomy for colon cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Do you always need a colostomy for colon cancer? What is the difference between a temporary and a permanent colostomy? Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Medical Correspondent, responds:You do not always...
Does aspirin use prevent the development of colon cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Does aspirin use prevent the development of colon cancer? James D. Lewis, MD, MSCE, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Senior Scholar at the Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, and...
End stage rectal cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am a critical care nurse, with 17 years of nursing experience. My husband was diagnosed with recurrent rectal cancer 1 yr ago. He has undergone multiple Chemotherapy treatments, and due to growing tumors on lung,...
Exercise for pelvic radiation fibrosis Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," One of the physiotherapists in our Agency has been asked to develop an exercise program for a lady who has radiation fibrosis in her abdominal & pelvis. She had her radiation treatments about 4-5 months ago. ...
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) treatment Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My 21-year-old son has been diagnosed with FAP. There is a strong family history from his father's side of the family. The doctor feels it would best to remove his entire colon and rectum which would involve a...
Family History and Risk for Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am 31-year-old male. I have been reading a lot about hereditary colon cancer due to some recent symptoms of lower right-sided abdominal cramps. My family history is both grandparents on fathers side...
Family History Of Colon Cancer And Ulcerative Colitis Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My mother suffered from ulcerative colitis from age 33-42. She finally had a j-pouch surgery in September.00 and is doing well. On her side, her brother and sister also both have ulcerative colitis... both...
Flat Polyp Detection Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Can you please comment on new techniques to identify flat growths on colon wall when under going colonoscopy screening procedure? Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Clinical Professor of Medicine and Director of GI, Penn...
Frequency of colonoscopies with family history of colon cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My family has a history of colon cancer. I lost a younger brother to colon cancer when he was 48. I am 52. I had a colonoscopy at age 49 and no polyps were found. I have an older brother who had polyps at...
Frequency of colonoscopy after removal of cancerous polyp Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I'm 54 years old and last October I had a routine colonoscopy and they found a medium size polyp and removed it. I was told the top part of the polyp contained cancer cells but not the stem so to be on the safe side...
Gas After Bowel Surgery Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am almost 5 years from diagnosis and treatment for colon cancer. I am experiencing excessive gas emissions, some unable to be controlled. I do not eat salads or fruits but it seems no matter what is ingested it...
Genetic testing for FAP Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My family has familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) on my mom's side. My mom has an ostomy & my brother had colon cancer 3 or 4 yrs ago. When he found out he had cancer, all of his siblings got a scope done. I had...
Guidelines for Colorectal Cancer Screening Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am a 26-year-old female. My grandmother was diagnosed with colon cancer at age 55 and died of the disease at age 60. My mother has been diagnosed with the disease at age 49. She was in Stage IV when her...
Hereditary Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am looking for a clinical study on hereditary connections for Colon Cancer. I have an intensive family history of colon cancer. My paternal Grandfather died from it in his 50's. My father has had 7...
Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I was diagnosed with uterine & cervical cancer in 1997, at age 34. I was told that I needed a colonoscopy because this cancer is sometimes followed by colon cancer. Is this true? How often should I be...
Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer Surveillance Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I was successfully treated at the age of 39, for uterine cancer. My father was successfully treated, at age 62 for non-polyps colon cancer. His mother was successfully treated for non-polyps colon cancer. Having had...
How can I prevent getting colon cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," How can I prevent getting colon cancer? James D. Lewis, MD, MSCE, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Senior Scholar at the Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, and Senior Fellow in the...
How long do I need to wait after surgery for radiation? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," How long do I need to wait after surgery for radiation? Richard Whittington, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, responds: In...
How villous adenoma relates to carcinoma Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," How are a villous adenoma and carcinoma thought to be related? Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Gastroenterology Division at the University of Pennsylvania and Director of...
Análisis de sangre oculta fecal inmunoquímica (iFOBT) Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Is the immunochemical fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) currently being used for community-based colorectal screening that you know of? This test does not require the fasting needed with the gFOBT test and may be more...
Increase in CEA After Colon Surgery Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My husband had a colostomy almost 3 years ago. Right after surgery his CEA level was .8 or .9. His most recent CEA is ll. He has been on LIPITOR and MODUCARE. Could either of these drugs cause a high CEA...
Information on 'Virtual Colonoscopy' Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," Can you give me any information on the "virtual colonoscopy"? Thanks, M.H. Richard Whittington, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania...
Insurance Coverage for Colonoscopy Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am writing on behalf of my brother. He is 58 years old and has never had a colonoscopy. My mother had breast cancer that metastasized to her colon, requiring a colostomy. She died in 1984. My father...
Intramucosal Polyp Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," Should I have a second opinion on the biopsy test to confirm the "intra mucosal" nature of the polyp? It sounds like, to my nonphysican ear, that the polyp tumor was confined to the polyp and had not...
Invasive Colon Adenocarcinoma Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I have a friend in his low 40's with recent diagnosis of invasive colon adenocarcinoma. He underwent a colectomy with tumor resection. The tumor invade bladder but without penetration. Surgical margins clear...
Is Colon Cancer Hereditary? Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I have just been diagnosed with a Dukes B adenocarcinoma of the colon, which has now been removed, and I am about to start a course of chemotherapy (5-FU). I am only 26 years old and have been told it is...
Is impotence a side effect of radiation for colorectal cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Is impotence a side effect of radiation for colorectal cancer? If so, how common and what is the usual time frame from completion of radiation until development of impotence? Is the impotence gradual or...
Is it possible to miss a tumor during a colonoscopy exam? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Is it possible to miss a tumor during a colonoscopy exam if it is in the cecum? Where can a tumor be located if it can be felt through the wall of the lower colon but is not present during colon exam?...
Is it safe to do colonoscopies while on Coumadin? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My mother takes Coumadin and will be on it for the rest of her life. My question is: Is it too risky to perform a colonscopy? Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine in the...
Is there an association between thyroid cancer and colon cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I had thyroid cancer and have diverticulosis. What are my risks? Should I be tested more often? James D. Lewis, MD, MSCE, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Senior Scholar at the Center for Clinical Epidemiology...
Laxative Use and Colon and Rectal Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I've heard that chronic constipation and laxative use is associated with colon and rectal cancer. Is that true? Thank you. Li Liu, MD OncoLink Editorial Assistant, responds: ...
Looking for a surgeon to treat colon cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My mother has just been diagnosed with colon cancer. She has been referred to a surgeon. What credentials should we look for in determining if the surgeon has the appropriate training and skills to treat her?...
Lynch Syndrome Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I have just learned that a lot of our family members are carriers of Lynch Syndrome. I have looked everywhere and can't find anything on it. Is there anything you can tell us? I am told it is a form of colon...
Magnification Colonoscopy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What can you tell me about magnification colonoscopy? Is it available in New York City, or some other center nearby?Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Medical Correspondent, responds: Magnification colonoscopy...
Neurological Deficits and Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My mother underwent surgery for colorectal cancer 3 years ago. She was treated with chemotherapy as well as radiation. She did fine until one of her last radiation treatments. At that point, she started...
Nutrition for cancer patients after gastric bypass surgery Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My friend has stage II ovarian cancer (OC) and is currently undergoing chemotherapy - 2nd treatment following debulking surgery. Prior to her diagnosis, she had stomach reduction surgery. She is having an...
Nutritional Changes Following Substantial Colon Resection Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am looking for information about changes in bowel habits, changes in diet, other practical hints, tips, etc. after substantial colon resection following surgery involving two synchronous cancers with many...
Polyps and the Symptoms of Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," Ten years ago I had polyps. They were not cancerous. Could they become cancerous? What are the symptoms of colon cancer? Thank you. JW James D. Lewis, MD, MSCE, Assistant Professor of...
Premature menopause and vaginal stenosis Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am a nurse treating a 36-year-old woman with stage 3 colorectal cancer who will be receiving concurrent radiation and chemo, and has been told she will be experiencing premature menopause and vaginal stenosis...
Prognostic Factors for Colon Cancer Including Genes Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I understand that the presence or absence of some genes makes a significant difference in the effectiveness of therapies such as radiation and chemo. Is there a current test to determine whether these genes...
Questions about an Upcoming Colon Surgery Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I have Colon Cancer, apparently at the beginning of my colon. I will soon be having surgery for this and diverticula surgery on the lower end of the colon. I have many questions. Can both procedures be...
Radiation after colon surgery Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," When is radiation used after colon surgery? Richard Whittington, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, responds: Cancer of the colon...
Radiation and chemotherapy at the same time Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Why do I need to have radiation and chemotherapy at the same time? Richard Whittington, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, responds: ...
Radiation before surgery to "shrink the tumor" and avoid a colostomy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My doctor said I could have radiation before surgery to "shrink the tumor" and avoid a colostomy. Can you tell me more about this? Richard Whittington, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation...
Radiation Burns Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My mom is 64 years old and was recently diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the anus T2 tumor, 2cm. Treatment included 5FU and mitomycin along with external beam radiation begun 5 weeks ago. There is a...
Radiation for T1 Cancerous Polyp of the Rectum Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am 25 years old and had a T1 cancerous polyp removed from my rectum in December. They are now recommending radiation therapy. I am wondering what the long-term effects of radiation therapy are and also whether or...
Radiation Prior to Surgery for Rectal Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I have recently been diagnosed with rectal cancer. I was told that chemotherapy and radiation was required before surgery. The mass is approximately 10cm. Frankly I would rather have surgery first. I...
Rectal Bleeding Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," Sometimes after a bowel movement, I notice blood on the tissue paper and a streak of blood along one side of the flat stool. I do plan on returning to see my doctor, but I still do not know the significance...
Rectal Bleeding and flat stools Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Sometimes after a bowel movement, I notice blood on the tissue paper and a streak of blood along one side of the flat stool. I do plan on returning to see my doctor, but I still do not know the significance of...
Rectal Bleeding and Rectal Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I have had rectal bleeding for about one week. This has happened before several months ago and stopped. I am seeing a Doctor about this later this month and am convinced I have rectal cancer. What are...
Rectal Cancer Treatment Options Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My mother, who is 84 years old, was recently diagnosed with rectal cancer. The tumor is a flat malignancy that is attached to the back wall of her rectum. All test results show that the cancer has not...
Rectal Mucus after Colostomy Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I had surgery following the diagnosis of colon and bladder cancer in July last year. I now have a colostomy and an Indiana pouch. I had 8 cycles of chemotherapy. My last CEA was fine, and the oncologist is very...
Recurrence statistics for Stage III Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am vast approaching my three year surgical resection anniversary. I was Stage III colon cancer with 1 out of 23 nodes tested positive (40 years old) Colon resection with all normal margins. (1 ½ inches of...
Relationship between HPV and rectal cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What can you tell me about the relationship between HPV and rectal cancer? Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Gastroenterology Division at the University of Pennsylvania and...
Retrograde Ejaculation Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am a survivor of colon cancer. I had a portion of my upper colon removed, went through chemotherapy, and now show no signs of cancer. For that I am extremely grateful, but I now am scheduled to reconnect my colon....
Rising CEA after colon cancer treatment Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My mother had colorectal cancer 15 years ago. She had surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. She has been cancer free for the past 15 years. Her follow up has been to get her CEA levels checked every 6 months. After 15...
CEA de levantamiento después del cáncer colorectal de la etapa II Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I was diagnosed in July 2001 with Stage II colorectal cancer, at age 33. I underwent surgery, radiation & chemotherapy. I was running CEA's of 1.9, but the last blood work just came back at 3.6. I was just...
Rising CEA after Surgery Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am a 45-year-old non-smoking male who at 41 was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. My CEA at diagnosis was 57. I had chemo and radiation therapy followed by surgery. Post-op, I had 5-F/U for 3 months. Ten...
Risk of Injury from Colonoscopy Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I am having a colonoscopy, but I am very concerned that I might end up with a hole in my colon. How common is it for an accident to happen? James D. Lewis, MD, MSCE, Assistant Professor of...
Risks and benefits of colonoscopy for elderly patients Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I would like information concerning the risk/benefits of colonoscopy for elderly patients (>80 yrs). Does the risk of bowel perforation increase with the patient's age? When do the risks of the...
Risks of colon cancer after multiple polyp removals Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am in my mid 30's and have had numerous colonoscopies over the last 10 years with polyps removed each time. I am now going every 3 years to get checked. Am I still at risk to get colon cancer even though I have the...
Risks of Colonoscopy I am in the process of looking for a qualified professional to perform my first colonscopy. I am at risk because my sister had colon cancer at age 14. She is now 36 and has a colostomy bag. I spoke with a doctor here in NYC and she informed...
Risks Of Radiation Therapy For A Lupus Patient Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," Can a patient with lupus and rectal cancer have a radiation therapy treatment? If so, what will be the risks? Richard Whittington, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology at the...
Screening Options when Insurance Companies Refuse to Precertify a Colonoscopy Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I have had constipation/with violent diarrhea for about 2 yrs, on and off constricted stools, bloating, it has steadily gotten worse over the last 6 months, no blood at this point. My physician referred me...
Side effects of radiation to the colon Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I had radiation therapy ending in December 2000 after a tumor was removed from my colon. Since then I have experienced irregular bowel movements, cramps, constipation & diarrhea. There is also a mucus discharge....
Side Effects of Radiation to the Rectum Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," What are the side effects of radiation treatment to the rectum? Thank you, L Richard Whittington, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania...
Side-Effects and Recurrence Rates of Stage 3 Colorectal Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I have a question for your panel regarding my father. He is 75 years old and is currently undergoing treatment for a Stage 3 colorectal cancer. The pathology report indicated the tumor to involve the full...
Signet ring cell colon cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My mother was just diagnosed with signet ring cell colon cancer. She had a right colectomy. She has one lymph node involved. I'm wondering what her prognosis and treatment options are?Julia Draznin Maltzman, MD,...
Specialty Pharmacies Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My doctor tells me that I should get my cancer medicine from a specialty pharmacy. What is that and what are the pros and cons of using a specialty pharmacy instead of my usual pharmacy?Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN,...
Stage 1 Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," Hello, I am a 35-year-old female. I was diagnosed with Stage I colon cancer last year. My sister who is 45 was diagnosed 4 years ago in stage 4. We just found out that the cancer has spread to her liver...
Stage IV colon cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My brother has been diagnosed with Stage IV Colorectal Cancer. The tumor is a Mucinous adenocarcinoma and has spread into his abdominal area. He is a 55 year old Caucasian non smoker who was fit and healthy. His...
Survival after 5 years for colon cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Are there survival statistics available for review by the colon cancer patient beyond the "generic 5 year overview"? What are the age guidelines for my three sons to be screened? I had surgery for a B2 T3 tumor with...
Síntomas Después de la Cirugía del Cáncer del Colon Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My father (65 years old) underwent a colon cancer surgery in December 2005. The proximal one-third of the colon (the cecum, ascending colon, and half of the transverse colon) was removed, and it was anatomized...
Symptoms of Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I have abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas, constipation, nausea and pencil thin stools. I am 44 years old, female, and I have no insurance. Is it cancer? Do you have any idea what I can do without...
The Frequency of Screening Colonoscopies Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," How often do you recommend having a colonoscopy? I previously lived in NJ and the doctor there recommended every two years. I now live in NC and the doctor recommends every 5 years. Since I have a...
Transanal vs. abdominal surgery for rectal cancers Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Is Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery just as useful as the abdominal approach? I need to be sure that a cancerous polyp did not affect my blood vessels or lymph glands Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Clinical Assistant...
Treatment and Follow-up Options after Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," Would appreciate your help and guidance. My wife under went a colon resection to remove cancerous growth. One lymph node tested positive. Subsequent chemotherapy treatment (5 FU & leucovorin )...
Treatment for Stage IV Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My father was just recently diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer. His oncologist has given him a good prognosis. He will start chemotherapy soon with 5-FU, Avastin and Oxaliplatin. He is very worried about this. How...
Treatment Options After Failed Chemotherapy Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," What can be done for a 60-year-old male with stage IV colon cancer with metastases to the liver and extra-hepatic disease? Multiple regimens of chemotherapy have failed. The patient currently has an...
Treatment options for a 95 year old with rectal cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My mother is a very youthful 95 year old who lives independently. She was diagnosed last week with rectal cancer, an adenocarcinoma within 6 inches of the anus. Surgery with the possibility of a colostomy is the...
Treatment Options for Dukes Level C Colon Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," My father has just had surgery to remove a malignant tumor from the right side of his colon (they removed "half" of the colon, according to the surgeon). In the removal, the surgeon took out 20 lymph nodes...
Ulcerative Colitis and Non-colorectal Cancer Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," I learned from your site (and others) that ulcerative colitis is associated with colorectal cancer. My question is whether ulcerative colitis could cause other malignancies. Thank you. ...
Video Capsule Endoscope Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I've got a fellow co-worker who has colon cancer and she's had a rough year and they've discovered that with the 1st surgery they didn't get it all. They've done scopes through her mouth and through her rectum and...
Villous adenoma Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am 38-year-old woman in excellent health. I have eaten fiber since age 15 every night (bran cereal). I am a long distance runner since age 14. I recently had a villous adenoma removed and remnants...
What are the risks of metastases to the brain with colon cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," My diagnosis is Stage III colon cancer. Lately I have been having severe headaches and have had no previous history of headaches. My question is whether or not there could be a connection. I have been told that the...
What are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy for Colon Cancer? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy for Colon Cancer? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: Chemotherapy kills cells that divide rapidly. ...
What are the standard colon cancer treatment options by stage? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What are the standard colon cancer treatment options by stage? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Medical Correspondent, responds: Stage I Stage I colon cancer is a tumor that has begun to...
What is a Barium Enema? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What is a Barium Enema? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: A barium enema uses barium sulfate, a radiopaque contrast that allows the bowel to be...
What is a Colonoscopy? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What is a Colonoscopy? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: A colonoscopy is a procedure that utilizes a colonoscope to examine the rectum and entire...
What is a Digital Rectal Exam? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What is a Digital Rectal Exam? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: Digital rectal exam is a technique used by physicians to assess rectal function,...
What is a polyp? Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts," So much talk about polyps! What is a polyp? Please explain. Thanks. James D. Lewis, MD, MSCE, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Senior Scholar at the Center for Clinical Epidemiology...
What is a Sigmoidoscopy? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What is a Sigmoidoscopy? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that utilizes a sigmoidoscope to examine the rectum and...
What is an Endoscopic Ultrasound? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What is an Endoscopic Ultrasound? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: Endoscopic ultrasound was first used in the early 1980's. It is essentially a...
What is Fecal Occult Blood Testing? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What is Fecal Occult Blood Testing? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: Fecal occult blood testing, also known as FOBT, is a test that can detect...
What is meant by "a change in bowel habits"? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Could you please better define what is meant by "a change in bowel habits"? For several months my husband has had an increase in the frequency of bowel movements He is 52, obese, sedentary, quit smoking a year ago,...
What is my risk for other cancers after colon cancers? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What is my risk for other cancers after colon cancers? James D. Lewis, MD, MSCE, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Senior Scholar at the Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, and...
What is the best way to get 5-FU (fluorouracil) (by IV, continuous infusion, or pill)? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What is the best way to get 5-FU (fluorouracil) (by IV, continuous infusion, or pill)? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: This is a difficult...
What is the risk of developing colon cancer in a person with Chron's disease? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," What is the risk of developing colon cancer in a person with Chron's disease? James D. Lewis, MD, MSCE, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Senior Scholar at the Center for Clinical Epidemiology and...
Why do I need chemotherapy after my bowel resection? Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Why do I need chemotherapy after my bowel resection? Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN, OncoLink's Clinical Trials Coordinator, responds: The answer to this question is dependent on the stage of...
Young patient with colon cancer symptoms Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am 25 years old. I have tested positive for blood in my stool and my doctor has recommended that I have a colonoscopy. He told me that I definitely have small hemorrhoids. Would you consider me at risk for colon...