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9_GI Tract in Disease_Large Intestine_Lower GI Bleeding_Colorectal Cancer_Diverticulosis

Pdf Summary

The document provides an overview of common conditions affecting the large intestine, specifically colorectal cancer, lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, and diverticulosis. <br /><br />Colorectal cancer originates in the colon or rectum and is among the most prevalent cancers in the United States, with a 5% lifetime risk. Its development from benign adenomatous polyps to invasive cancer can span 10-15 years. The disease might be asymptomatic initially but could present with obstruction or peritonitis. Screening guidelines suggest starting at age 45 or sooner based on family history or conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. Screening tests include fecal occult blood tests, colonoscopy, and imaging techniques. Localized tumors are treated with surgical resection, while metastatic cancer might receive chemotherapy or palliative care.<br /><br />Lower GI bleeding typically originates in the colon and presents symptoms such as hematochezia, melena, and anemia-related conditions. Causes include diverticulosis, angiodysplasia, ischemic colitis, and malignancy. Management involves fluid resuscitation, exclusion of upper GI bleeding, and colonoscopy for diagnosis and treatment.<br /><br />Diverticulosis involves outpouchings in the colon, often found incidentally. Although usually asymptomatic, it can lead to complications like diverticulitis, causing left-sided abdominal pain, fever, and elevated white blood cells. Diagnosis is often through a CT scan, and treatment can range from antibiotics for uncomplicated cases to surgery for complications. Diverticular bleeding is usually mild and self-limiting but may require interventions like colonoscopy or surgery.<br /><br />Hemorrhoids are swollen anal veins caused by factors such as aging, pregnancy, or straining. They are diagnosed through examinations like anoscopy and are treated conservatively with dietary changes or procedures like rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy. Surgical options include hemorrhoidectomy for severe cases.

Keywords

colorectal cancer

lower GI bleeding

diverticulosis

screening guidelines

hemorrhoids

adenomatous polyps

surgical resection

diverticulitis

colonoscopy

chemotherapy