Sigmoid colon cancer: causes, signs, stages, removal. Sigmoid colon cancer: causes, treatment, prognosis What affects a favorable prognosis

Date: 19.10.2019

Cancer sigmoid colon even after the appearance of a polyp, the disease may not manifest itself, this is due to the intricacies of the structure of the sigmoid colon

Cancer in any form poses a danger to human health and life. If we talk about the intestine, among malignant neoplasms, the most common tumor is the sigmoid colon. At the end of the article, we will offer you a statistical prognosis for stages 2, 3 and 4 of sigmoid colon cancer, but first we suggest that you familiarize yourself with what her symptoms are, how to diagnose cancer and what treatments are available.

Sigmoid cancer is called the silent killer for a reason. Even after the appearance of a polyp, the disease may not manifest itself. This is due to the intricacies of the structure of the sigmoid colon.

What is this gut?

Sigmoid colon- This is a separate part of the human intestine that resembles the English S in an inclined form. The feces are formed here, the absorption of substances beneficial to the body occurs. If there are few components for stimulating peristalsis in food, it can linger in the intestine, stretch the walls, and disrupt blood circulation. In the future, this leads to stagnation and the formation of polyps.

Sigmoid colon cancer symptoms

Features of blood circulation are such that neoplasms of the sigmoid region grow rather slowly and at first do not manifest themselves in any way. Any disturbing disturbances are drowned out by the peritoneum. This is the main insidiousness of tumors of this part of the intestine. If the disease manifests itself somehow on early stages, then these symptoms are rather subtle. They are not specific and are typical for most other, less dangerous diseases. Most patients rarely pay attention to them and come to the doctor when it is too late to do something.

What symptoms should make you suspicious?

Small disturbances of peristalsis, which can manifest themselves as flatulence, belching, rumbling, painful urging to the toilet. Diarrhea can be replaced by constipation - later they increasingly make themselves felt.
The appearance of blood clots in the stool. Some patients may mistake them for hemorrhoids and do not rush to the hospital. Meanwhile, when a dangerous polyp is injured by the masses, blood appears.
Cramping pains. Observed on the left side gastrointestinal tract and does not depend on how long ago you took food. Due to the fact that the tumor begins to grow directly into the intestinal walls, and the passage of feces is difficult, there are painful sensations... Usually this symptom is characteristic of the second or third stage.
Increased fatigue, pallor of the skin. The patient's appetite may disappear, body weight falls, taste preferences become perverted. This condition occurs due to the further growth of the tumor. It blocks the lumen of the sigmoid colon. Elimination of feces is difficult, possible intoxication of the body.
When the tumor blocks the lumen, bloating occurs.
The last stages of the course of the disease are characterized by an increase in the size of the liver, serious intoxication of the body. The skin becomes sallow and signs of jaundice appear. Bleeding becomes more massive, peritonitis and intestinal abscesses are observed.

Due to the blurred symptoms, the diagnosis of sigmoid cancer is last stages... This is why it is so important to properly diagnose. The earlier the correct diagnosis was made, the higher the patient's chances of overcoming the disease.

How it is defined: cancer diagnosis

To make a truly correct diagnosis, the most different methods... This is the collection of anamnesis, and examination of feces, examination along with palpation.

The simplest method is rightfully considered finger diagnostics. The sigmoid colon is very easy to feel through the rectum. An experienced specialist will immediately determine the presence of a foreign growth. It is a pity that people rarely go to the doctor for minor complaints. Also, methods such as sigmoidoscopy or traditional abdominal ultrasound can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Let's consider these types of diagnostics in more detail.

Colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy. Methods that allow visual examination of the intestinal surface in order to detect polyps and other neoplasms. Allows you to make a biopsy, that is, take a piece of tissue. The methods themselves are very painful, therefore they are not prescribed for the elderly, as well as for patients with weakened immunity.
Irrigoscopy. X-ray using barium. A more gentle procedure that does not cause any discomfort to the person. He drinks a barium solution, sometimes it is given through an enema into the rectum. X-rays allow to determine the tumor itself due to the fact that barium reliably envelops all the intestinal walls.
MRI or magnetic resonance therapy. Perhaps the most revealing of all. Determines the presence of a tumor and its size, as well as the location, the presence of metastases, etc. This allows you to correctly determine the stage of the disease, make the necessary predictions about effective treatment oncological diseases.

Stages of development, prognosis of survival

Like any other cancer, sigmoid colon cancer has several stages. The prognosis for survival depends on when exactly the tumor was diagnosed.

Sigmoid colon cancer, stage 1

V mucous layer a small tumor with a maximum size of 1.5 cm begins to grow in the intestine. There are no metastases as such. If therapy was started almost immediately, the probability of curing patients within several years is quite high - 95%.

Stage 2: prognosis

If the size of the neoplasm is more than 15 mm, but less than half the diameter of the sigmoid region, the person is diagnosed with the second stage of cancer. It can be divided into subspecies. In the first case, the tumor did not have time to go beyond the intestinal wall, and there are no metastases. In the second case, the tumor has already grown into the intestinal wall, and single metastases have appeared. The survival rate is also quite high, although it decreases with the appearance of metastases.

Sigmoid colon cancer stage 3 prognosis: how long do they live?

This stage can be divided into two subspecies. In the first case, the tumor occupied more than half of the bowel diameter, but there were no metastases. The second subspecies is associated with the appearance of numerous metastases.

When treatment is started at the 3rd stage, and even with the presence of metastases, the survival rate is much lower and is equal to 40%.

Stage 4 sigmoid colon cancer: how long do you live?

Unfortunately, the development of cancer of the 4th degree is dysfunctional. The tumor can completely close the lumen, metastasize during internal organs or grow into the gut, bladder... The survival rate is very low - 30% for several years.

Treatment

Removal of education by surgical intervention has long been considered the main and most effective method impact. Along with it, other methods can be applied:

Chemotherapy... It is a drug treatment option that inhibits cell growth, effectively destroys them. Thanks to chemotherapy, it is possible to significantly prolong the life of a sick person - even if the metastases have already affected the internal organs. However, chemotherapy cannot replace the intervention of a surgeon - it only shrinks the tumor and slows its growth. In rare cases, if the cancer is inoperable, chemotherapy is used as an alternative route. The method must be used with the utmost care as it has serious consequences.
Radiotherapy ( Radiation therapy) ... Is an in a combined way that has an effect on a malignant tumor. Not only destroys cancer cells, but also prevents them from dividing. Sometimes the tumor is so reduced in size during radiation therapy that it becomes almost invisible even with the use of diagnostic equipment. After such therapy, the outcome of the operation is much better.

As for the surgical intervention, it involves the removal of a part of the intestine with the tumor and lymph nodes that are located nearby. When the affected area of the intestine is removed, a comprehensive restoration of the integrity of the intestine is performed.

Sometimes in the later stages, a complex removal of the sigmoid part of the intestine is carried out, a colostomy is performed. It ensures the normal waste of feces and gases. By itself, this measure is temporary and is used to improve the results of the operation. Then, depending on the patient's condition, the colostomy can be removed and the excretion of feces through the anus can be adjusted.

During the examination, neoplasms with a low degree of malignancy are often diagnosed. The tumor can be removed endoscopically, without any incisions. Then the tissue of the neoplasm is simply excised using endoscopic instruments. But it is better to carry out such operations at stages 1-2.

If a patient is diagnosed with stage 3, the operation is always performed only after chemoradiation therapy. It significantly slows down cell growth, improves prognosis. After surgery, it is sometimes prescribed additional treatment in the form of drug administration, radiation. This reduces the risk of recurrence of this dangerous disease.

With timely detection, such a form of cancer as a tumor of the sigmoid region is treatable, the outcome is quite favorable. An important role in the process is played by a competent diet and balanced diet... For example, alcohol and carbonated drinks, spices, fried foods, black tea and coffee are contraindicated in patients. But you can eat vegetables and fruits.

This section of the organ is located almost at the very end of the intestine. The sigmoid colon is S-shaped and is also involved in digestive function Gastrointestinal tract. It absorbs the remnants of nutrients, enzymes and, most importantly, residual moisture, and then turns the feces into a solid consistency.

About the disease

Sigmoid colon cancer is a neoplastic malignant neoplasm from epithelial tissues that appears as a result of cell mutation. Oncology itself is very common and occupies about 35% of all cases of intestinal malignant tumors.

This is due to the fact that feces with insufficient intestinal peristalsis, poor nutrition or other concomitant diseases stagnate. During stagnation, toxic substances from the stool are absorbed into the intestinal wall. There is also a deterioration in blood circulation.

The problem with this pathology is that there are practically no symptoms in the early stages. Some scientists suggest that oncological cancerous tumors first secrete painkillers into the nearest walls. That is why the disease itself is often diagnosed at 3 or 4 stages, when it is almost impossible to cure cancer.

Causes

Intoxication- occurs due to alcohol, cigarettes, highly toxic food, drugs, food with dyes and food additives.
Genetics- if the patient has blood relatives who suffer or have been ill with this ailment, then they immediately fall into the risk group.
Poor nutrition- flour, animal fats and proteins contribute to the development of tumors.
Diseases- such as ulcerative and chronic colitis, Crohn's disease, diverticulosis.
Intestinal peristalsis is impaired- may be due to drugs, illness, a sedentary lifestyle, or as a result of injury or surgery.
Sigmoiditis, polyps, adenomatous polyposis Are precancerous benign neoplastic formations that can subsequently lead to cancer. Usually, the polypoid tumor is removed immediately.
Diabetes- the result is obesity, which in turn can lead to swelling.
Radiation, ecology- affects the formation of any oncology, including the digestive tract.

First signs

The first symptoms of sigmoid colon cancer are very mild, and usually the patient confuses them with a common disorder, diarrhea, or other medical conditions. The symptomatology is the same in women and men.

Flatulence and regular gas.
Abdominal pain on the left.
Diarrhea alternates with constipation.
Constant loud rumbling in the stomach.
Foul-smelling eructations.
Pain during and before stool.
Blood in the stool. The difference from hemorrhoids will be that the blood is mixed into the masses themselves, when, as with hemorrhoids, blood enters during the act of defecation from above in the form of drops. Cancer feces may be darker due to blood clots.

Subsequent symptoms

Brighter signs appear when the tumor grows, affects nearby tissues, lymph nodes and metastasizes to organs.

Enlarged liver.
General intoxication, headaches, nausea, vomiting.
Low-grade fever, dizziness.
Loss of appetite and weight.
Bloating.
Anemia.
Ascites with abdominal carcinomatosis.
Icteric eyes and skin.
Feces in the form of a tape. It is due to the fact that the tumor blocks the intestinal passage.

NOTE! Blocking the intestinal passage by a tumor can be dangerous. Then the feces will stagnate and intoxication will be several times higher.

Stages

Degree	Description
Stage 1	The tumor is small in size and is located within the mucous tissue of the epithelium. Survival rate: 97%
Stage 2	2A - grows into the intestine and takes up half of the passage. 2B - grows into the intestinal wall. In both cases, there are no metastases. Survival rate: 80%
Stage 3	3A - the tumor has big sizes but does not metastasize. Survival rate: 58% 3B - the neoplasm gives metastases to the nearest lymph nodes Survival: 40%
Stage 4	Metastasis goes to all lymph nodes, and the nearest organs: ovaries, bladder, testicles, prostate, liver, pancreas, etc. Survival: 8%

Metastases

Metastases usually appear at stage 4 of sigmoid colon cancer, a little less often at stage 3. Malignant cells penetrate through lymphatic system, blood and germination of the tumor itself into the nearest tissues.

Organ damage

Bladder.
Uterus.
Ovaries.
Testicles and penis.
Spinal cord and spine.
Liver
Kidneys and adrenal glands.
Pancreas.
Stomach.
Peritoneum.

Complications

Thrombophlebitis in the venous vessels of the small pelvis.
The neoplasm blocks the intestinal lumen and causes partial obstruction. At a later stage, it may be complete.
Retroperitoneal abscesses due to inflammation.
Peritonitis or inflammation of the abdomen.
Additional symptomatology in case of metastases to other organs.
Carcinomatosis of the Peritoneum.
Ascites.

Diagnostics

Palpation and external examination- after the first symptoms, the patient seeks a doctor. He spends initial inspection patient, listens to complaints and palpates the abdomen for swelling and other defects.
Analyzes- general rent, biochemical analysis blood, urine and feces. In the second case, it is necessary to find out the presence of blood in the feces.
Colonoscopy- if blood was found in the analysis of feces, or it is necessary to make a more accurate examination, then an endoscope is inserted into the anus and the intestines are examined for the presence of neoplasms. With the help of endoscopic examination, you can take a piece of the tumor for histological examination. Sigmoidoscopy is a rather unpleasant procedure.

Ultrasound of the peritoneum- scan all abdominal organs for metastases.
Irrigoscopy- v abdominal cavity a barium contrast solution is injected and an x-ray is taken.
MRI, CT- very accurate diagnostics, allowing you to see the tumor, its size, shape, the degree of damage to nearby tissues.
Biopsy- A piece of tumor tissue is examined under a microscope to see atypical cells, the difference with healthy ones. Differentiation and aggressiveness, as well as the benign quality of the neoplasm.

Therapy

Correct treatment of sigmoid colon cancer is possible only after an accurate diagnosis has been made. After that, the oncologist develops a strategy to combat the tumor. Usually, the treatment is carried out in a complex: surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.

Surgery

The task is to remove the tumor with the nearest damaged tissues and to preserve the integrity of the organ as much as possible.

Resection- only a small part of the neoplasm with the nearest segment tissues is removed. The healthy ends are simply stitched together. The prognosis after surgery in this case is very favorable and most patients are completely cured.
Endoscopic removal- an endoscope is inserted into the intestine and a part of the tumor is carefully removed. Several punctures are also made in the abdomen, through which special tubes with a camera and instruments are inserted.
Complete removal- Usually done at a later stage, when there is metastasis to the lymph nodes. A diseased piece of intestine with affected tissues is being cut off. The bowel may then be passed into an opening in the abdomen (colostomy) to drain stool and gas.

Chemotherapy

It is used before surgery to reduce malignant neoplasm to an operable size, and after, to destroy the remaining metastases. Used only as complex treatment with surgery. It is used independently only if the operation cannot be performed. A chemical reagent is injected into the tissue next to the tumor or the vessel feeding it, which is aimed at destroying cancer cells.

Radiotherapy

It is often used after surgery to destroy the remnant of the tumor. According to statistics, intestinal cancer is very insensitive to radiation, which is why radiation therapy is used in combination with chemotherapy to improve the result of treatment.

Forecast

A malignant tumor of the sigmoid colon most often has a low aggressiveness and develops for a rather long time. Because of this, the survival rate is quite high. Plus, metastases usually appear only at 4 stages to the nearest organs. Have adenocarcinoma or glandular cancer the survival rate is similar.

What influences a favorable prognosis?

Cancer differentiation. A highly differentiated tumor is easier to treat, and with aggressive tumor growth, the prognosis is worse.
The age of the patient.
Stage of cancer. The earlier it was diagnosed, the higher the survival rate of patients.
Reaction to chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
The presence of concomitant diseases that can complicate treatment.
The presence of metastasis to the lymph nodes.
Organ metastases.

If the tumor has 1 stage with a restriction in one tissue plane of the organ, then it is cured and removed quite simply, and the survival rate reaches 98%. With liver metastases, the survival rate drops to 5%.

Nutrition

In the first days after resection or removal of the tumor, all nutrients are injected intravenously and it is contraindicated for the patient to eat. Then, over the next 6 days, all food should be liquid:

Vegetable puree soups.
Curd mass with fruits.
Buckwheat, oatmeal.
Juices.
Vegetables: tomatoes, cucumbers, white cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli.
Greens: parsley, onion, celery.
Turnip.
Lean meat, fish, chicken.
Red pepper.
Fruits: oranges, tangerines, apples.
Berries: strawberries, cherries, raspberries, currants, blueberries, blueberries.
Cottage cheese, low-fat sour cream, homemade yogurt.

Energy value

Fat - 15%
Protein - 35%
Carbohydrates - 50%

Fundamental rules

All food that will be cooked must be passed through a blender to completely grind it.
Food should be eaten only warm. Cold and very hot food is prohibited, which interferes with the production of gastric juice.
Diet food rich in trace elements and vitamins.
All food must be boiled. It is forbidden to eat fried.
Immediately after the operation, the walls of the colon are fragile and you need to eat no more than 3 kg of food per day.
It is necessary to eat in small portions 5-6 times.
You need to drink a lot of water a day - 6-7 glasses.

Forbidden to take

A tumor of the sigmoid colon belongs to diseases that are quite common and are classified as dangerous malignant neoplasms. This disease is characterized by the emergence of uncontrollably multiplying cells that can penetrate into nearby tissues and metastasize.

What is the sigmoid colon

The sigmoid colon is a section of the intestine. It runs almost to the rectum. It is in it that the formation of feces and the absorption of nutrients occurs.

A tumor of the sigmoid colon is one of the most common malignant neoplasms, which is due to the anatomical structure of this area. The feces become much thicker, so the mucous membrane is in contact with toxic substances for a long time. As a result of interaction with intestinal tissues, the formation of polyps, which hang down into the intestinal lumen, and fleecy, pink-red tumors, the surface of which is velvety, is possible.

Feature of the disease

Malignant tumor of the sigmoid colon refers to neoplasms that form on the tissues of the sigmoid region of the intestine. This colon is located in front of the rectum. It is in this department that fecal masses are formed. If there is a violation of the digestive process in the body, then the feces on long time remain in the sigmoid colon, as a result of which it stretches, changes its location and becomes more voluminous.

As a result of the retention of feces, intoxication of the body occurs, as well as a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen and discomfort. A tumor of the sigmoid colon at the initial stage does not manifest itself at all, which is very dangerous. Symptoms begin to appear only when the disease is in its final stages. Therefore, if there is discomfort in the intestinal area and the presence of characteristic symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor, since the disease can lead to the death of the patient.

Tumor type classification

A benign tumor of the sigmoid colon can develop into a malignant neoplasm over time. Among the main types of this disease are the following:

mucous adenocarcinoma;
highly differentiated;
moderately differentiated;
cricoid cell carcinoma.

The most aggressive form of malignant neoplasm is considered to be poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. It has very pronounced symptoms and rapid development.

Stages of the disease

There are several stages of a tumor of the sigmoid colon, which are characterized by different symptoms. At the first stage, the tumor is small and located only in the mucous membrane. With timely treatment, the prognosis is quite good, and a person can live for more than 5 years.

In the second stage, the tumor grows into the intestinal wall, its size increases, but there are no metastases. In the third stage, the malignant neoplasm spreads to half the diameter of the sigmoid colon, and at the same time, the survival rate after treatment is less than 50%.

Stage 4 sigmoid colon tumor is characterized by the growth of a malignant neoplasm into other organs and tissues and the formation of metastases. At this stage, the treatment is quite complicated.

Causes of occurrence

Modern medicine has made great strides in determining the root cause of this disease. The method of therapy, as well as the outcome of the treatment, largely depends on this. There are certain risk factors that affect the occurrence of sigmoid colon cancer, such as:

hereditary factor;
nutritional features;
the presence of bad habits;
chronic inflammatory processes.

Most often the disease is associated with hereditary factor... That is why, in the presence of this disease in close relatives, it is necessary to undergo periodic examination by a doctor, especially during puberty, so that the pathological process can be detected even at the stage when the tumor is benign.

Unhealthy diet can lead to the onset of illness, in particular the consumption of fast food, foods high in carcinogens, as well as the abuse of alcohol and tobacco. All this provokes the formation of toxic substances in the body, which, when penetrating into the intestines, provoke the suppression of beneficial microflora, which causes inflammatory processes in the stomach and intestines.

Chronic inflammatory processes lead to significant changes in the intestinal mucosa. At risk are people suffering from peptic ulcer and colitis. They can provoke complications in the form of malignant neoplasms.

Main symptoms

Symptoms of a sigmoid colon tumor appear at later stages, so the disease is very difficult to recognize and treat in a timely manner. Among the first signs, one can single out the occurrence of bleeding, which may be due to trauma to the neoplasm with feces.

Often there is a degeneration of a fleecy spongy tumor, as a result of which an inflammatory process is observed. Sigmoid colon tumor metastases are often observed in the elderly. The asymptomatic course of oncological processes is always dangerous for a person, since the first signs appear already at the very last stages, and this threatens dangerous complications and is life threatening.

A villous tumor of the sigmoid colon at the initial stage can be detected during preventive measures and research tests. She, like polyps, responds well to therapy and gives fairly good prognosis after surgery. They need to be removed only with a benign course of the disease in order to prevent the transition to a malignant neoplasm.

With careful and respectful attitude to one's own health it is quite possible to suspect the presence of signs of a malignant neoplasm. Symptoms in this case will be characteristic of the entire intestine and long. You should definitely consult a doctor if you have symptoms such as:

violation of digestive processes;
bloating and belching;
a feeling of tension in the peritoneal region;
the presence of a purulent accumulation in the feces;
painful sensations.

If there is a suspicion of a malignant tumor, the deterioration of well-being cannot be ignored, since they may indicate the 3rd stage of the disease. The patient's face becomes gray, anemia occurs, body weight decreases, he quickly gets tired and becomes weak.

In women, symptoms may be similar to those of cystitis, as well as inflammatory processes of the genitourinary organs, as well as ovarian cancer.

Diagnostics

Instrumental studies will help determine the cause and stage of the malignant neoplasm. Diagnostic measures include research, with the help of which the doctor can identify clinical picture the course of the disease, on the basis of which the therapy regimen is determined. Initially, he asks the patient about existing complaints, characteristic features and localization of painful sensations.

Since the sigmoid colon is located on the left side of the peritoneum, painful sensations are mostly concentrated in this area. After that, the doctor palpates the abdomen, and if the malignant tumor is large, then it is felt. Then the doctor prescribes a number of instrumental and laboratory studies, in particular, such as:

colonoscopy;
irrigoscopy;
tomogram;
laboratory diagnostics.

With a malignant neoplasm, the patient is shown a colonoscopy, which is carried out using a special apparatus - a colonoscope. This instrument is a flexible and thin tube, equipped at the end with a small video camera, which makes it possible to see the state of the affected organ on a computer monitor. The doctor examines the affected area of the intestine, determining the presence of neoplasms, their location, and size. During the study, biological material is taken for a biopsy.

Irrigoscopy, or X-ray, is characterized by the fact that images of the peritoneal region are taken, in which the tumor is visualized. For this study, a contrast agent is previously injected into the intestine, which makes it possible to take more accurate and clear pictures.

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are prescribed for patients who have a suspicion of having a tumor. These studies allow you to determine the size of the neoplasm, its location, how badly the intestine and nearby organs are affected.

In addition, laboratory diagnostics are carried out. The patient takes a number of required tests, in particular, a blood test, urine and feces for the presence of impurities of blood and pus in case of damage to malignant cells of the kidneys and genitourinary system.

Treatment features

Treatment of a tumor of the sigmoid colon is carried out exclusively by surgery. The most effective methods are endoscopic techniques. Laparoscopy helps not only to reduce the level of trauma from the surgical intervention, but also to prevent the occurrence of complications in the form of infection or bleeding. In addition, if a tumor of the sigmoid colon is removed using endoscopic techniques, then the time frame is significantly reduced. rehabilitation period... After a few days, a person may already return to their usual way of life.

With the help of endoscopy, it is possible to remove the affected area of the intestine through a small incision, while protecting nearby organs from damage by malignant cells.

In the initial stages of the disease, removal of the sigmoid colon tumor is performed during a colonoscopy. In this case, it combines very well with electroplasma coagulation. Endoscopic techniques are used mainly in elderly people who are in a very serious condition. This is due to the fact that people in this condition simply cannot withstand the standard surgical intervention, which implies a dissection of the abdominal wall.

Depending on the specificity of the tumor of the sigmoid colon, the operation can be performed different ways and the tactics of its implementation changes in the course of the intervention. Wherein great importance has the state of the intestine. If the patient is young and his condition is stable, then doctors recommend a standard operation with the removal of a significant part of the intestine.

If there is a large tumor of the sigmoid colon, the operation is not performed using the standard method. Such patients are shown palliative intervention, aimed not at treating the patient, but only at alleviating his condition. In the presence of intestinal obstruction, a colostomy is formed.

At advanced stage diseases, removal of a tumor of the sigmoid colon is not performed, but chemotherapy sessions are prescribed. In addition, chemotherapy is also given to the patient after surgery to restore the normal process of urination and defecation. Radiation therapy is rarely used, as the intestinal walls may rupture, since this malignant neoplasm is very sensitive to radiation.

Diet

In case of a malignant neoplasm with localization in the intestinal region, the patient is prescribed fractional meals 5-6 times a day. Dishes are served exclusively warm and grated.

The post-surgery diet consists exclusively of juices, liquid vegetable purees and herbal decoctions... This diet must be for 5-6 days. The consumption of any food products must be strictly coordinated with the doctor. The subsequent diet for malignant neoplasms implies a decrease in the amount of meat consumed or its complete exclusion, fried food, canned food, confectionery, and also semi-finished products. It is imperative to exclude spicy and solid foods from the usual diet.

You need to consume only natural fresh food, in particular vegetables, fruits and cereals. Food should be balanced, complete, free of coarse inclusions. It is best to consume as many light meals as possible. After a month, you can gradually include in your diet lean meats and fish, various dairy products.

Traditional methods of therapy

Therapy using traditional methods complements the surgical intervention, as well as chemotherapy. Folk methods with a malignant tumor help to strengthen immune system, make it easier to feel after chemotherapy, normalize bowel function, prolong the patient's life. Treatment folk remedies and methods implies the use of:

poisonous herbs;
alcohol tinctures;
soda, minerals, goji berries.

Complex therapy cancerous tumors sigmoid colon gives good chance for a successful and quick recovery. Folk antineoplastic agents are included in complex therapy and help to normalize health after surgery and chemotherapy. It is important to remember that many herbs are highly poisonous, therefore, strict adherence to the recipe for the preparation of the drug is required.

Survival prognosis

With a tumor of the sigmoid colon, the prognosis largely depends on the stage of the course of the disease, as well as the characteristics of the malignant lesion. The prognosis of survival depends on several factors, in particular, such as:

the stage of the cancer;
the age of the patient and the severity of his condition;
whether there are additional diseases.

A malignant tumor manifests itself at later stages, and in this case, the course of the disease has a very poor prognosis. In this case, patients do not undergo surgery, and they can only rely on the effect of chemotherapy.

Highly essential has the presence or absence of lymph node metastasis. In the absence of metastases in the patient's body, the prognosis is quite good and the survival rate is high. If the patient has metastases, then only a few patients survive the 5-year line.

Preventive actions

In order to prevent the occurrence of a tumor, it is imperative to worry about preventive measures. To do this, you must definitely adhere to correct diet nutrition, timely therapy of inflammatory processes, conduct active image life, undergo regular examinations, and also give up bad habits.

In addition, if you have problems with digestive tract it is imperative to undergo a periodic examination for the timely detection of the problem.

16.02.2017

Cancer of the sigmoid colon is a common type of malignant neoplasm of the intestine.

It is also called the "silent killer", because the symptoms of the disease are absent over time due to the structural features of the sigmoid colon.

The sigmoid colon is a segment of the large intestine, it resembles the shape of a tilted letter S. In the sigmoid colon, feces are formed, nutrients and water are absorbed into the blood. If the food consumed contains few components that stimulate intestinal motility, feces may remain in the intestine. It stretches its walls and disrupts blood circulation, toxins begin to be absorbed into the intestines from feces.

Violation of peristalsis and congestion can increase the risk of epithelial proliferation, which leads to the formation of polyps and precancerous conditions.

Due to the peculiarities of intestinal blood circulation, malignant neoplasms grow slowly, do not show obvious symptoms, and the thick peritoneum drowns out the pain syndrome. Pain and pronounced symptoms of sigmoid colon cancer appear in the latter stages.

Causes of sigmoid colon cancer

It is impossible to unequivocally name the cause of sigmoid colon cancer. Experts note unfavorable factors that can cause malignant tumors:

Genetics. It was found that the risk of the formation and development of malignant tumors of the sigmoid colon is much higher in people in whose families there were cases of intestinal cancer.
Diseases of the colon of an inflammatory nature in chronic form (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, diverticulosis).
Colon polyps. In the early stages, polyps are benign, but quite often, over time they degenerate into malignant tumors. Many oncologists view polyposis as a precancerous condition.
Age-related intestinal atony.
Impaired intestinal motility (due to a sedentary lifestyle of a person, undergone operations and long-term intake certain medicines).
Unbalanced diet. This factor plays a significant role in bowel diseases. It is very important that the diet consists of foods rich in fiber and fiber. And restrictions must be imposed on food containing a large number of animal proteins and fats, and fast carbohydrates.
Intoxication of the body. Intoxication occurs with the abuse of products containing carcinogenic food additives, as well as with the abuse of alcohol and nicotine.

Symptoms of a malignant tumor

As already mentioned, malignant neoplasms pose a danger in that the signs of sigmoid colon cancer appear only in the last stages.

Early symptoms are subtle and similar to other, less dangerous diseases. According to statistics, most patients apply for medical care late.

Sigmoid colon cancer, symptoms:

Disturbed bowel function - manifestation of flatulence, rumbling in the abdomen, belching, nausea, painful urge to defecate, constipation alternating with diarrhea, intestinal obstruction.
The presence of mucus, blood, or pus in the stool. The patient accepts the symptom as the presence of hemorrhoids and does not seek immediate medical attention. An admixture of pus or mucus indicates an accessory inflammatory process, and blood is released when the formation is injured by feces.
Dull or cramping pain in the left iliac region that does not depend on food intake. This symptom, manifested in the second or third stage of the disease, arises from the germination of a malignant neoplasm into the intestinal wall and poor permeability of feces through the intestines.
Weakness, paleness skin, fatigue. The patient has no appetite or taste preferences change. Body weight can be significantly reduced. The reason that causes these conditions is the growth of a tumor that blocks the lumen of the intestine. Growth causes intoxication and makes it difficult to eliminate feces.
Bloating, difficulty passing gas and stool.
In the last stages, due to the fact that the liver is increasing in size, the symptoms of intoxication are intensified. Skin color takes on an earthy tint, and signs of jaundice and anemia appear. Later, the symptomatology only grows: intestinal obstruction develops, the manifestation of massive bleeding, peritonitis and intestinal abscesses.

It is worth remembering that timely differential diagnosis is extremely important, even with minor manifestations and suspicions of sigmoid colon cancer. The sooner the patient is correctly diagnosed, the more chances he has to cope with the disease and survive.

Diagnostics of the oncology of the sigmoid colon

Diagnostics consists of taking anamnesis, laboratory studies of feces for latent and overt blood, external examination and palpation. The sigmoid colon is palpable through the rectum to detect cancer.

Thanks to this method, it is possible to determine the presence or absence of neoplasms. If all patients applied in a timely manner for medical help, then this method could save life.

This technique is used even for mild and insignificant patient complaints. And in order to confirm the diagnosis, other methods are used, such as sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, irrigoscopy, MRI and ultrasound of the abdominal cavity.

Sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy. With the help of these procedures, you can visually examine inner surfaces sigmoid colon and detect malignant tumors and polyps of a benign nature. These methods allow you to make a biopsy - collection of tissue for histological examination. Sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy are not painful and carry the risk of bowel perforation. Therefore, they are usually prescribed to elderly and debilitated patients. The procedures should only be performed qualified specialist in a specially equipped office.
Irrigoscopy. This method is an x-ray with barium. During the procedure, the patient does not feel any discomfort. Before diagnosis, the patient drinks a special barium solution or is injected into the intestines, after which an x-ray is taken. And on the images obtained, they can determine the presence of a neoplasm.
MRI. Is the most modern and informative method diagnostics, which allows you to determine not only the presence of a tumor, but also its location and size. Also, thanks to this method, metastases are detected. MRI gives vital information for the correct determination of the stage of the disease and further predictions.

Development stages of oncology

1st stage... This stage is characterized by the manifestation of a tumor in the submucous or mucous layer of the intestine, no more than fifteen millimeters in size. There are no metastases.
2nd stage. The neoplasm occupies less than half of the gut circumference. The 2nd stage is divided into substages: 2a and 2b. At stage 2a, the tumor does not spread outside the intestine and there is no metastasis to regional lymph nodes. At stage 2b, the neoplasm grows into the intestinal walls, and the manifestation of single metastases can be observed.
3rd stage. It is also divided into two substages: 3a (tumor size is more than half the bowel diameter, there is no metastasis) and 3b (the appearance of many regional metastases is characteristic).
4th stage... The stage has two options for development: the neoplasm can close the intestinal lumen, and the tumor can metastasize to the lungs, liver and spine; the tumor can grow into the nearest organs (bladder, uterus, rectum).

Sigmoid colon treatment

The main treatment for a disease such as sigmoid colon cancer is surgery and removal of the neoplasm within healthy tissues.

In combination with surgical treatment, the following methods should be applied:

Chemotherapy. With this method, cancer cells are destroyed, which prevents them from dividing. Chemotherapy can prolong the patient's life even in the most severe cases, when the presence of metastases in other organs is determined. Chemotherapy cannot replace surgery sigmoid colon cancer, it can be used in combination with it. Chemotherapy does not remove the growth, but only makes the tumor smaller and slows down its growth. The technique has many side effects, use it with caution.

Radiation therapy... This method has the maximum effect on a malignant tumor. With the help of it, the destruction of cancer cells occurs. After several courses of radiation therapy, the neoplasm can be so reduced in size that it cannot be seen on diagnostic devices. And chemoradiation therapy can give a better outcome of surgical treatment.

Surgical intervention for this disease involves the removal of part of the intestine along with the neoplasm and nearby lymph nodes. After resection of the affected area, restoration processes of the integrity of the intestinal tube are performed.

V individual cases, in the last stages malignant process a complete resection of the sigmoid colon is performed with the formation of a colostomy, which allows gases and feces to escape.

This technique is temporary and is used to improve results. surgical intervention... Subsequently, the colostomy is removed, and the normal excretion of feces through the anus is restored.

Removal of the neoplasm by the endoscopic method is possible, but only if the examination diagnosed small tumors with a low degree of malignancy. Under these circumstances, the tumor is removed without a skin incision. The tissues of the formation are excised with an endoscopic instrument, usually these operations are performed at the first and second stages of the cancer process.

When the cancer of the sigmoid colon has reached the third stage, the operation is performed after a course of chemoradiation therapy. The operation can slow down the growth of malignant cells and thereby improve the prognosis. After surgery, repeated radiation treatment can also be applied. This is necessary in order to prevent relapse of the disease.

Sigmoid colon cancer is considered one of the least aggressive forms. Timely detection and treatment this disease give a fairly favorable outcome.

Survival prognosis

If treatment is started in the first or second stage of the disease, then the five-year survival rate is about 95%. If therapy is started at the third or fourth stage of the disease, with the presence of metastases, the percentage five-year survival rate is about 40%.

Without treatment, the five-year survival rate is less than 30% and depends on the stage and rate of development of the disease.

Sigmoid cancer is not uncommon cancer affecting the part of the intestine, which is located between the lower colon and rectum. The sigmoid colon carries an important function, it is in it that food is broken down into feces, water and nutrients, which then enter the bloodstream. Its name comes from its shape, reminiscent of the recumbent S, sigma.

Sigmoid colon cancer. What it is?

According to statistics, sigmoid colon cancer is considered the most common type of colon cancer.

Cancer of the sigmoid colon is a tumor, most often formed from the epithelium of the mucous membrane (). Due to improper nutrition in the human body, digestive disorders and the work of the entire intestine are possible. Often in this part of the intestine stagnation of feces is formed, all due to a decrease in intestinal motility.

Stool congestion leads to, the intestinal walls absorb toxins from the feces, and this, in turn, leads to an unnatural proliferation of the epithelium. The proliferation of the epithelium is a direct factor in the formation of polyps or other types of precancerous diseases in the large intestine. Due to the slow blood circulation in the sigmoid colon, the tumor develops slowly, and the thick walls of the peritoneum drown out the symptoms of tumor formation and growth, which makes it a difficult to diagnose type of cancer.

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At this time, when the risk of cancer is high, the population is obliged to undergo full examination without even having compelling reasons and pronounced symptoms.

Risk group

The occurrence of epithelial neoplasia of the sigmoid colon is due to various reasons:

Symptoms

Cancer of the sigmoid colon is so dangerous because there are no obvious symptoms in the early stages, and these symptoms may be similar to less dangerous diseases... The symptoms of this cancer in women and men are the same.

It is worth paying attention in any case to the appearance of the following signs:

Stool disturbance, when diarrhea gives way to constipation;
Flatulence, irregular gas, rumbling in the stomach;
Belching with an unpleasant odor;
The urge to have a bowel movement is painful.

The presence of blood or blood clots in the stool can be mistaken for hemorrhoids when it may indicate trauma to a polyp that has already degenerated into a malignant formation. Dull pain appear in the second and third stages on the left in the iliac region, then the tumor grows into the intestinal wall.

With an incomplete examination of the patient, cancer is mistaken for an ulcer or an inflammatory process, such as pancreatitis, cholecystitis. To exclude diseases of another type, the doctor must carry out a differential diagnosis.

More obvious first symptoms that appear already in the later stages:

Staging and forecasting

According to the world classification of diseases, the ICD code 10 is C18.7.

The development of a malignant neoplasm of the sigmoid colon is divided into 4 stages:

Stage 1... The tumor is located within the sigmoid colon. If detected at this stage, the survival rate is almost 100%.

Stage 2... It is divided into two subspecies.

2A when the tumor occupies less than half the diameter of the intestine and grows into the lumen;
2B when the tumor grows into the wall of the sigmoid colon.

There are no metastases. Predictions are good, with five-year survival rates above 80 percent in both cases.

Stage 3 also consists of two options.

3A- The tumor occupies more than half of the bowel diameter, without metastasis. The survival rate is about 60%;
3B- The tumor metastasizes to the regional lymph nodes. The survival rate is about 40%.

Stage 4... It is characterized by the growth of the tumor to neighboring organs, metastases in the lymph nodes and in distant organs. The chance of survival is up to 10%.

Metastasis

Metastases spread through the bloodstream and along lymph nodes... From distant organs, cancer spreads with metastases to: liver, lungs, spine. In the process of metastasis, significant pain appears, against the background of tumor growth into the rectum, uterus, bladder, intertwining with important for the body blood vessels and nerves.

Complications that can lead to cancer of the sigmoid colon:

Complete or partial intestinal obstruction, due to a reduction in the lumen of the intestine by a tumor;
Peritonitis;
Abscesses;
Thrombophlebitis.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis is best done by everyone available ways, so as not to confuse cancer with diseases with similar symptoms... Most simplest method Is palpation. Laboratory tests for tumor markers also go to her.

A biopsy of an area of the intestine will determine the composition of the tumor cells and how differentiated the cancer is. Neoplasia of a malignant nature (adenocarcinoma) or benign nature (adenoma).

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Treatment

Treatment of malignant blastomas of the sigmoid colon combines surgical removal of the tumor and chemotherapy. Small tumors in the first or second stage can be removed without a skin incision using an endoscope.

Resection... Surgical removal of the tumor is a mandatory process in the treatment of sigmoid colon cancer. If the tumor is small, the tumor is removed together with the affected area and nearby lymph nodes. Next, the intestinal tube is connected and anastomosis is applied.

the disease is used to remove a part of the intestine with a tumor and perform a colostomy. Colostomy is the removal of the large intestine into an artificially created passageway on abdominal wall ... Feces passing through the large intestine enters the colostomy bag. A colostomy can be made temporary or permanent. A temporary colostomy is performed in order to improve the condition of the body; after a few months, the colostomy is removed. If, together with the sigmoid colon, the rectum was removed, then the colostomy will remain forever.

Chemotherapy is carried out in conjunction with surgical intervention... It is prescribed both before and after the operation. It is possible to use one or more existing chemicals... help slow down further tumor growth or reduce its size. Chemotherapy is used on its own only in cases of inoperable tumors, to alleviate the patient's condition. Do not forget that chemotherapy has a number of side effects, such as: constant nausea, vomiting, dizziness and weakness, fatigue.

Radiation therapy will also help in the complete cure of cancer. Radiation therapy will stop the division of cancer cells and reduce the size of the tumor. Also, radiation after surgery will reduce the risk of recurrence.

Forecast

The earlier cancer is detected and treatment is started, the higher the chances of a complete cure and survival. It is known that highly differentiated malignant tumors respond better to treatment.

In the first and second stages, the forecasts are high, on average 90%. This is because sigmoid colon cancer is not an aggressive cancer. At the third stage, depending on the presence of metastases in the body, the percentage of five-year survival ranges from 40-60%.

Diet for sigmoid colon cancer and the postoperative period

After the operation, the patient must follow a certain diet. The first day is limited to fasting. The patient receives nutrients intravenously. In the next week, any solid food is contraindicated. You can use only broths, pureed soups, decoctions and juices. However, a specific list of permitted foods must be obtained from your healthcare professional. After 10 days, you can introduce fermented milk products, lean meat or lean fish into the diet.

Prohibited foods include:

Any pickles, canned pickles;
Fatty and fried meat dishes;
Any kind of smoked meats and sausages;
Sweet baked goods and freshly baked bread;
Coffee, chocolate;
Alcohol and carbonated drinks;
Fat milk, as well as cheese;
Eggs;
Vegetables with coarse fiber, bran;
Legumes.

Allowed foods are best steamed or boiled. It is best to divide the portions into 5 or 6 small portions. Food after resection should be low-fat, should reduce the consumption of foods that cause gas, bloating.

You should not rely on treatment with folk remedies. Proper nutrition should help the rapid recovery of digestion after chemotherapy.

Preventive measures include reducing the consumption of harmful carcinogenic products, normalizing peristalsis, and curing constipation. If there are any inflammatory processes, they must be cured to the end. And of course, timely examination and diagnosis, especially for people with a predisposition to this disease.