Colorectal Cancer
01 — Colorectal Cancer
Overview
Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum and often develops from abnormal growths called polyps. The disease can vary considerably depending on its location, stage and biological characteristics.
Medical oncology may form part of treatment before or after surgery, or may become central to care when the disease has spread or returned. Early assessment and accurate staging help the cancer team determine the most appropriate treatment strategy.
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Where it startsColon or rectum, often from polyps
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Varies byLocation, stage and biological characteristics
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Medical oncologyBefore or after surgery, or central in advanced disease
02 — Colorectal Cancer
Common Signs & Symptoms
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01Persistent changes in bowel habits
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02Blood in or on the stool
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03Abdominal discomfort, cramps or bloating
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04Unexplained weight loss
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05Persistent tiredness or weakness
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06A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
These signs do not always mean cancer, but any new or persistent symptom should be assessed by a doctor.
03 — Colorectal Cancer
Diagnosis & Staging
Diagnosis may involve clinical assessment, blood tests, colonoscopy and biopsy. Imaging and other investigations may then be used to determine the extent of disease and establish the stage. Pathology provides important information about the tumour, while molecular testing may provide additional information relevant to treatment planning. The complete assessment helps determine whether medical oncology, surgery, radiation therapy or a combination of treatments is appropriate.
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Clinical assessment & blood tests
The initial evaluation of symptoms and general health.
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Colonoscopy
Examination of the colon and rectum.
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Biopsy
Used to obtain a tissue sample for diagnosis.
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Imaging & staging investigations
Determine the extent of disease and establish the stage.
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Pathology & molecular testing
Provide information about the tumour that is relevant to treatment planning.
04 — Colorectal Cancer
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on whether the cancer is in the colon or rectum and on its stage. Options can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Different treatments may be combined or used at different stages of care, including before or after surgery or for advanced disease.
Surgery
May be combined with other treatments or used at different stages of care.
Radiation therapy
May be combined with other treatments or used at different stages of care.
Systemic treatments
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
When treatments may be given
- Before surgery
- After surgery
- For advanced disease
The treatment plan is tailored to the individual cancer and the patient’s overall clinical condition.
05 — Colorectal Cancer
Dr. Taori’s Approach
Dr. Taori has participated in colorectal cancer awareness and professional education, including a colorectal cancer health-awareness programme at Zulekha Hospital. His medical oncology approach considers the stage and characteristics of the cancer when determining the role of systemic treatment. He coordinates treatment with the appropriate multidisciplinary team when surgery, radiation or other specialist care is involved. This helps ensure that medical oncology forms part of a coordinated overall plan.
- Considers the stage and characteristics of the cancer first
- Coordinates with the multidisciplinary team
- Medical oncology as part of a coordinated overall plan
06 — Colorectal Cancer
Consultation
If you have symptoms, a new diagnosis or questions about an existing colorectal cancer treatment plan, a specialist oncology consultation can provide individualised guidance. Dr. Taori can review the diagnosis and explain the medical treatment options relevant to your situation.
Explore Other Cancer Types
Learn more about the other cancers Dr. Taori manages.