The diagnosis of carcinoma of the colon and rectum A review of 714 cases

Retroperitoneal abscess: A presentation of colon carcinoma

“…The variability of the presentation of carcinoma of the colon is well-known [1]. Advanced lesions and associated complications with minimal symptoms are often encountered.…”

“…Cancer of the colon does not always present with the familiar symptoms of rectal bleeding, anemia, a change of bowel habit, or abdominal pain [1]. Less common manifestations include perforation and abscess formation, which are usually intraperitoneal, but may also be located in the extraperitoneal spaces.…”

Suppository Treatment of Haemorrhagic Proctitis

“…A bariumenema examination should also be done to exclude a carcinoma or other lesions beyond the reach of the sigmoidoscope. That these elementary considerations deserve emphasis is apparent from a study by Muir (1956) from which it appears that the diagnosis of carcinoma of the rectum and colon is often unnecessarily delayed, the patient having symptoms for an average time of six months before he arrives at hospital. Similar findings by Swinton and Counts (1956) from America show that the problem is not confined to our own country.…”

A 10-year survey of large bowel carcinoma at Groote Schuur Hospital with particular reference to patients under 30 years of age

“…The symptoms and their duration appear to be the same for young and old patients; however, in the younger age group the diagnosis of carcinoma is seldom entertained. Muir (1956) found that pain was a common feature with carcinoma of the right colon and that it tended to be situated in the epigastrium, with a definite relationship to meals, or to be located as pain in the appendicular region. This is supported by our finding that 10 of the 25 patients under 30 years of age were investigated for peptic ulcer disease for periods of 1 to 18 months before the correct diagnosis was made.…”