There are two types of hereditary colon cancers: multiple polyp formation and the non-polyp form cancers. Some new clinical studies suggest that a larger proportion of what has been assumed to be non-hereditary causes of colon cancer may actually have an inherited basis (see Resources).
History
This condition was first recognized in 1895. At first it was called familial neoplasm syndrome, then Lynch syndrome. Later it was renamed hereditary non-polyposis colon.
Frequency
Estimates suggest that 5 to 6 percent of colorectal cancers are of the hereditary non-polyposis type. These are more common than those cancers from hereditary polyposis causes.
Diagnosis
Unfortunately, these cancers may be difficult to diagnose because of problems recognizing the distinct DNA marker. This is a serious defect, because the best curative procedure, colectomy, may not be followed soon enough.
Management and Treatment
Medical recommendations are for colonoscopies every 1 to 2 years beginning between the ages of 20 to 25. With neoplasms identified, subtotal resection of the affected colon portion is often suggested.
Prognosis
If the disease can be diagnosed early based on confirmation of the genetic markers, there may be a better 10-year survival prognosis than for non-genetic colon cancers.
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