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Colon Tumor

At GastroDoxs Houston, our dedicated colorectal specialists provide comprehensive colon tumor screening and treatment plans, ensuring early detection and optimal outcomes for patients in the Houston area, combining cutting-edge technology with compassionate care for your health and peace of mind.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What Is a Colon Tumor?

A colon tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the large intestine. Some tumors are benign (noncancerous) and often removed during a colonoscopy; others are malignant (cancerous) and may require additional treatment. Early detection and removal can improve outcomes and survival rates.

Common Symptoms

In the earliest stages, a colon tumor may cause no symptoms. As it grows, you might notice:

  • A change in bowel habits (new-onset diarrhea or constipation)
  • Blood in the stool or visible bleeding
  • Abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue or weakness from anemia

Causes

Several factors can raise your risk of developing a colon tumor:

  • Family history of colon cancer or polyps
  • Chronic inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
  • A diet high in red or processed meats
  • Physical inactivity and obesity
  • Inherited genetic syndromes (FAP, Lynch syndrome)
Treatment

Treatment Options for Colon Tumors in Houston

Treatment includes surgery, systemic therapies, and supportive care:

  • Surgery: Resection of the tumor via colectomy, segmental resection, or minimally invasive laparoscopy to remove cancer and surrounding tissue.
  • Endoscopic removal: Polypectomy or endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) during colonoscopy for early-stage polyps and small tumors.
  • Chemotherapy: Adjuvant or neoadjuvant regimens (e.g., FOLFOX, CAPOX) to destroy microscopic cancer cells and lower recurrence risk.
  • Radiation therapy: Often used for rectal cancers before or after surgery to shrink tumors and improve local control.
  • Targeted therapy: Agents like cetuximab (EGFR inhibitors) or bevacizumab (VEGF inhibitors) tailored to your tumor's molecular profile.
  • Immunotherapy: Checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., pembrolizumab) for MSI-high or mismatch-repair-deficient tumors to boost your immune response.
  • Clinical trials: Access to novel treatments, including personalized vaccines and new targeted agents, under expert oversight.
  • Supportive care & follow up: Nutrition counseling, pain management, regular imaging, colonoscopies, and tumor marker (CEA) testing to monitor your recovery and detect recurrence early.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

At GastroDoxs in Houston, our board-certified gastroenterologists specialize in comprehensive colon tumor care-leveraging the latest ICD-10 based diagnostic tools, high-definition imaging, and tumor marker analysis to craft personalized treatment plans. We’re committed to clear communication, compassionate support, and guiding you through every step, from your initial consultation to follow-up care. Don't wait to take charge of your colon health-book your appointment today and let our expert team partner with you on the path to better outcomes.

48K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 48K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for colon tumors?

The primary ICD-10 code for malignant neoplasm of the colon is C18.x, where the specific digit (C18.0-C18.9) identifies the tumor's exact location within the colon, such as the cecum, ascending colon, or sigmoid colon.

What do colon cancer tumor markers do?

Tumor markers like carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CA 19-9 are proteins measured in the blood that help monitor treatment response, detect recurrence, and guide therapy decisions.

What affects colon tumor survival rate?

Survival rates depend on the tumor's stage, size, spread to lymph nodes or other organs, the patient's overall health, and how early the tumor is detected and treated.

Where can I see images of colon tumors?

You can view high-resolution endoscopic and radiologic images of colon tumors through our secure patient portal or by requesting copies of your scope photos from our clinic.

Are there specific markers for colon cancer?

Yes. The most commonly used markers include CEA and CA 19-9, and additional tests may assess genetic changes such as KRAS mutation or microsatellite instability (MSI) to guide targeted therapies.

What stage is a 7 cm colon tumor?

A tumor measuring 7 cm typically corresponds to stage II or higher, but accurate staging also depends on lymph node involvement and the presence of distant metastases.

Can a bleeding tumor in the colon be treated?

Absolutely. Treatment options include endoscopic removal, surgical resection, targeted therapies, or radiation and chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's type, location, and severity of bleeding.

Where can I see safe tumor pictures?

Our patient portal provides secure access to your own endoscopy and imaging photos, allowing you to review tumor images safely and privately.

How accurate are tumor pictures?

They are very accurate. We use high-resolution endoscopes and advanced CT or MRI imaging to capture clear, detailed views of tumors for precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

How do I meet a colon tumor specialist near Houston?

Simply call GastroDoxs or schedule an appointment online to be connected with one of our board-certified gastroenterologists who specialize in colon tumor care in Houston.

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