Colon and Rectal Cancer: Prior to Diagnosis
Comparison Of Diagnostic Techniques
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The following description of diagnostic techniques, advantages and disadvantages was prepared by the Colon Cancer Alliance:
OUTPATIENT PROCEDURES
Screening Method |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
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ColonoscopyExamines inside the rectum and entire colon using a long, lighted tube called a colonoscope . |
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Computed Tomographic Colonography (virtual colonoscopy)Uses x-rays and computers to take 2- or 3-dimensional images of your colon and rectum . |
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Flexible sigmoidoscopyExamines your rectum and the lower part of the colon with a lighted tube called a sigmoidoscope . |
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Double-contrast barium enemaAir and barium are pumped into your rectum. The solution will show any polyps or tumors on x-rays . |
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Digital Rectal ExaminationDoctor examines inside of rectum with a gloved finger, to feel for abnormalities |
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IN HOME TESTING
Screening Method |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
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Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)Can detect small amounts of blood in the stool by submitting a portion of several bowel movements to your doctor for testing. |
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Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)Submit a small amount of a single bowel movement to your doctor's office for testing. |
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Stool DNA Test (sDNA)Checks for changes to the cells in the colon by looking at DNA cells in the stool . |
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