This article was medically reviewed by MSc. Trinh Le Hong Minh, a Resident Doctor and Level I Specialist from the Department of Diagnostic Imaging at Vinmec Central Park International Hospital.
With advancements in medicine, there are now many methods for diagnosing colon cancer, including colon ultrasound. This is a non-invasive and painless technique that enables the early detection of colon cancer, making treatment decisions more objective.
1. Essential Information About Colon Cancer
1.1 What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer develops within the lumen of the colon. If malignant tumors in the colon invade the muscular layers of the colon wall and are not detected and treated promptly, cancer cells may metastasize to other organs, posing a life-threatening risk.
Colon cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, following lung cancer, stomach cancer, and liver cancer.
1.2 Causes of colon cancer
The exact cause of colon cancer remains unclear. However, research suggests several risk factors, including:
- Aging.
- Unhealthy diet: Consuming high amounts of fat and red meat while having a low-fiber intake.
- Obesity.
- Smoking.
- Gastric ulcers with bleeding.
- Untreated colon polyps.
- Family history of colon cancer
1.3 Common symptoms in colon cancer
In the early stages, colon cancer often has no obvious symptoms. As the tumor grows, the following symptoms may appear:
- Prolonged digestive disorders: Frequent symptoms such as belching, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea.
Changes in bowel habits: Abdominal pain after eating, loose stools, or constipation. - Blood in stools: Fresh blood, blood mixed in the stool, or dripping blood.
- Difficulty with defecation: A strong urge to defecate accompanied by cramping pain, yet difficulty passing stools.
- Fatigue and unexplained weight loss: Sudden weight loss without a clear cause, combined with the above symptoms, may indicate colon cancer. Prompt medical consultation is essential for accurate diagnosis.
2. Can Ultrasound Detect Colon Cancer?
2.1 What is colon ultrasound?
Colon ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic method that uses high-frequency ultrasound waves to capture images of the colon and surrounding organs.
During the ultrasound, a doctor applies a thin layer of gel to the abdominal area and uses a transducer to capture images displayed on an ultrasound screen. This helps evaluate the condition of the colon and guides appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
2.2. Who should undergo colon ultrasound?
- Frequent constipation or diarrhea.
- Blood in stools.
- Stomach cramps or spasms.
2.3. Preparation Before a Colon Ultrasound
Before the procedure, the doctor may request necessary blood tests.
To ensure accurate results, patients should follow these instructions:
- 3–4 days prior to the ultrasound: Consume a light, low-fiber, and easily digestible diet. Drink plenty of water but avoid colored drinks or carbonated beverages.
- 2 hours before the ultrasound: Avoid eating or drinking anything.
2.4. Can Ultrasound Detect Colon Cancer?
The answer to the question, “Can ultrasound detect colon cancer?” is yes. Ultrasound can not only detect colon cancer but also identify other serious conditions such as liver cancer and stomach cancer.
Advantages of Ultrasound:
- Cost-effective: Ultrasound is an affordable diagnostic method.
- Non-invasive and safe: The procedure is painless and poses no health risks.
Limitations of Ultrasound:
- Ultrasound may miss small lesions or early-stage tumors in the colon.
- Results depend heavily on the experience and expertise of the doctor.
- In addition to ultrasound, several other effective methods are available
for colon cancer screening, including:
- Colonoscopy.
- Blood tests.
- Stool tests.
- CT scans.
- MRI scans.
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