Can a Colonoscopy Detect Other Conditions Besides Cancer?
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A colonoscopy is a vital diagnostic procedure used to inspect the inner lining of the colon for any signs of inflammation or unusual growth. It is typically performed to screen for colorectal cancer at its early stage when it is most easily treatable.
By providing a direct view inside the colon, a colonoscopy allows doctors to assess the colon for infection, bleeding, blockages, or other gastrointestinal disorders.
How Does A Colonoscopy Work?
During the procedure, the doctor inserts a colonoscope—a long and flexible tube with a tiny video camera attached to its tip—into the rectum and advances through the entire length of the colon. The camera then transmits real-time images to a monitor to allow the colonoscopy doctor to examine the lining of the entire colon. If suspicious lesions or abnormal tissues are found during a colonoscopy, they can immediately extract and collect these tissues for a biopsy to determine their nature.
Key Differences Between Colonoscopy and Gastroscopy
Aside from colon cancer, a colonoscopy procedure can also detect the following gastrointestinal conditions:
- Colon Polyps: Abnormal growths that protrude from the intestinal lining can be classified as hyperplastic or adenomatous polyps, which can turn cancerous if left untreated. A colonoscopy screening helps detect and remove these polyps to mitigate the risk of future cancer development.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): This is an umbrella term for chronic inflammatory disorders that affect the gastrointestinal tract – ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. A colonoscopy helps diagnose these conditions by identifying inflammation, ulcers, and other indicators; allowing doctors to prescribe appropriate treatment.
- Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis: A defect within the colon wall can cause small pockets or pouches (diverticula) to form inside. This condition is known as diverticulosis. If one or more protruding pouches become inflamed or infected, it results in a condition known as diverticulitis. A colonoscopy can help confirm the presence of diverticula and rule out other conditions.
- Haemorrhoids: Also known as piles, these swollen or enlarged veins can develop beneath the skin surrounding the anus (external haemorrhoids), inside the colon and lower rectum (internal haemorrhoids), or bulge out through the anal opening (prolapsed haemorrhoids). In some cases, a doctor may perform a colonoscopy to detect internal haemorrhoids and investigate other potential underlying conditions.
- Colonic Strictures: These are narrowings or obstructions in the colon that may impair stool passage and lead to discomfort. They can result from conditions such as inflammatory bowel diseases, scar tissue from surgeries or infections, or tumours. A colonoscopy allows the doctor to detect and treat them.
Beyond its role in cancer screening, colonoscopy is a comprehensive diagnostic method that can detect a variety of gastrointestinal conditions, from precancerous polyps and inflammatory bowel diseases to haemorrhoids and colonic strictures.
If you are experiencing early warning signs of colon issues or have a family history of gastrointestinal diseases, consult with your doctor about undergoing a colonoscopy screening. Reach out to us for more information today.
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