A colorectal biopsy is conducted to determine the presence or to check the spread of cancer. A biopsy is basically a test that diagnoses cancer after examining tissue removed from the affected area under a microscope. The test helps one to determine whether or not cancer is present and if it has spread to surrounding areas. There are many colorectal diseases and disorders that may hinder the normal functioning of the colon. Colorectal disease is common but can cause great pain and discomfort and should be treated immediately.
You know that you are suffering from colorectal disease if you suffer from symptoms like infection of the colon, bleeding and perforations in the colon. In most cases, to treat colorectal disease, a section of the colon is surgically removed. Since on an average, the colon measures to about five feet, removing the affected section does not hamper its normal functioning. There are several types of colorectal disease like colonic polyps, diverticulosis, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and hemorrhoids to name a few. Colon cancer is similarly a kind of colorectal disease, and can be diagnosed with the help of a biopsy.
Colonic polyps could become malignant if left untreated. Colonic polyps are pieces of tissue that are an extra growth in the large intestine. Polyps in the colon result in bleeding and difficult bowel movements and are generally treated with a colonoscopy. Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis is another common colorectal disease and it is caused by frequent and prolonged inflammation of the intestinal tract. Colon cancer generally originates in the colon or rectum. Some of the symptoms your may experience if you are suffering from colorectal cancer are weight loss, constipation, abdominal pain, intestinal obstructions, anemia and bloody stools.
In order to prepare for a colorectal biopsy to diagnose cancer, first the colon or rectum will need to be cleansed thoroughly. This can be achieved by following a particular diet or with the help of an enema or laxatives. On the day specified for the test, the medical practitioner will perform a digital rectal exam by inserting a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to ensure that there are no blockages. A colonoscope or a sigmoidoscope will then be inserted to perform the test. The scope is inserted in order to collect a tissue sample. The area chosen for a sample will be anesthetized to avoid pain or discomfort. There may be very mild bleeding or discomfort after the colorectal biopsy has been conducted. If the bleeding is very heavy or is accompanied by fever or chills then contact your medical practitioner immediately.