Genetic Predisposition to Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is the most common malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract and is the second leading cause of cancer death when both genders are considered. There are several risk factors associated with an increased incidence of colorectal cancer, such as advanced age, high animal fat and low fiber diet, tobacco smoking, pelvic irradiation, and inflammatory bowel disease. However, one must be aware of a special population of patients with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to hereditary syndromes and manage them accordingly. The first step in management of hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome (HCRCS) is recognizing when the condition is present. Some patients may be without symptoms and seen for an unrelated condition. Family cancer history and reviewing surgical and pathology reports are crucial components in recognizing HCRCS. However, some patients with HCRCS will be the first person in a family diagnosed with the syndrome. Other clues may suggest the presence of HCRCS, such as unusual symptoms (abdominal pain, change in bowel habits, blood in stool) or findings (desmoid tumor, skull osteomas, supernumerary teeth) in a young person.