Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colon Cancer
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).
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History
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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
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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.
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Diagnosis
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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
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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
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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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