What is the prognosis for a patient with familial polyposis?
Without treatment, familial polyposis can lead to the development of colorectal cancer in almost all affected individuals. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
With early diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis for familial polyposis is generally good. Treatment options include surgery to remove the colon and rectum, as well as regular colonoscopies to screen for and remove any precancerous polyps.
The following factors can affect the prognosis for a patient with familial polyposis:
* Age at diagnosis: The earlier familial polyposis is diagnosed, the better the prognosis. This is because early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent the development of colorectal cancer.
* Type of polyposis: There are two main types of familial polyposis: familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis (AFAP). FAP is the more common type and is associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer. AFAP is a less common type and is associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer.
* Treatment received: The type of treatment received can also affect the prognosis for a patient with familial polyposis. Surgery to remove the colon and rectum is the most effective treatment for FAP. Regular colonoscopies to screen for and remove any precancerous polyps can also help to improve the prognosis.
Overall, the prognosis for a patient with familial polyposis is good with early diagnosis and treatment. However, it is important to note that familial polyposis is a lifelong condition and that regular follow-up care is necessary to monitor for the development of colorectal cancer.