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).

History

• 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

• 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.

Diagnosis

• 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

• 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

• 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.