Initial presentation of colon cancer with acute symptoms is generally thought to be associated with more advanced disease and less treatment options, researchers said. They tested this theory by reviewing 2008-2010 emergency medical records from university facilities.
Researchers conducted a retrospective analysis of 376 colon cancer patients and found 33 presented to the emergency department with acute symptoms. Of those, only 15.5 percent were given only palliative treatment. Of the patients who initially presented in other departments, 20.5 percent received palliative treatment. Researchers concluded patients presenting to emergency departments are still viable for curative treatment.
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