Rectal Cancer: Modern Approaches to Diagnosis and Treatment

Rectal cancer refers to the cancer that develops in the rectum cells. Its major symptoms include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, and unexplained weakness and fatigue. It can metastasize to abdomen, brain, lungs, and ovaries. The diagnosis of rectal cancer can be done through rectal examination, blood tests, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, CT scan, MRI scan, endorectal ultrasound scan (ERUS), and the PET-CT scan. The doctors determine the stage of cancer progression after examining the results of diagnostic tests and establish the size and position of the cancer along with the extent of its spread. The most common treatment for rectal cancer is surgery. However, other treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, chemoradiation, and targeted therapies can also be used. The exact course of treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and its location in the rectum. The aim of this book is to present researches that have transformed this discipline and aided its advancement. It includes contributions of experts and scientists, which will provide innovative insights into this field.