A colon tumor is a growth that forms in the lining of the large intestine. It can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (colon cancer). Early detection-through screening methods like colonoscopy and tumor marker blood tests-helps catch and treat tumors before they progress.
Colon tumors may not cause noticeable symptoms at first. As they grow, you might experience:
Certain factors increase your risk of developing a colon tumor:
If you're experiencing persistent bowel changes, bleeding, or discomfort-or if you've received concerning test results-our colon tumor specialists at GastroDoxs in Katy are ready to help. We combine advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate support to guide you every step of the way. Don't wait-take control of your health and book your consultation now.
We've successfully treated more than 48K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
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.
Colon tumors are diagnosed through a combination of tests, including colonoscopy with biopsy, imaging studies such as CT scans, and blood tests for tumor markers like CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen).
A 15 cm tumor size provides context, but staging also depends on how deeply it invades the colon wall, lymph node involvement, and any distant spread. Your gastroenterologist will use the TNM system (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) to determine the exact stage.
A 6 cm tumor may correspond to a T3 lesion if it invades through the muscular layer into the outer colon wall, but true staging requires evaluation of lymph nodes and metastases as well.
"Apple-core" refers to the classic radiographic appearance of a constricting lesion in the colon, often indicative of malignancy. Early detection and surgical removal generally improve outcomes.
Most colon tumor resections, whether laparoscopic, robotic, or open, take between 1 and 3 hours, depending on tumor location, size, and complexity.
Common blood markers include CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) and CA 19-9. These help assess disease progression and monitor treatment response, though they are used alongside imaging and pathology results.
Yes. During your consultation, your specialist can show endoscopic and radiologic images to illustrate the tumor's appearance and explain your treatment options.
As with any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, and anesthesia complications. However, minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic or robotic colectomy often reduce recovery time and postoperative discomfort.
Preparation involves following a clear-liquid diet the day before the procedure and taking prescribed laxatives or bowel prep solutions to completely cleanse the colon for optimal visualization.
If you experience persistent bleeding, unexplained cramps, changes in bowel habits, or any symptoms lasting more than a few days, schedule an appointment with a colon tumor specialist at GastroDoxs in Katy right away.
