Studies Show 4 Causes of Tubular Adenoma

A tubular adenoma is a non-cancerous tumor typically growing in the gastrointestinal tract. These tumors are usually benign, meaning they do not spread to other body parts. However, in rare cases, they can become cancerous.

Symptoms of a tubular adenoma of the colon may include bleeding from the rectum, change in bowel habits, colon polyps, and abdominal pain. If the tumor is large, it may cause a blockage in the intestine.

Diagnosis typically involves a colonoscopy or biopsy. Treatment options include surgical removal of the tumor and regular surveillance for recurrence.

Causes of Tumor Growth

There are a variety of potential causes, though the exact cause is unknown in many cases. Potential causes include:

• A family history of tubular adenomas or other gastrointestinal tumors
• Exposure to certain chemicals or toxins like benzene, vinyl chloride, or arsenic
• Certain medical conditions, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease
• Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Risk factors for developing it include:

• Age: It is more common in middle-aged and older adults.
• Sex: Men are slightly more likely to create a tubular adenoma than women.
• Smoking: Smoking cigarettes is a risk factor for developing a tubular adenoma.
• Diet: A diet high in fat and low in fiber may increase the risk of acquiring the disease.

Diagnosing and Symptoms

The symptoms of a tubular adenoma may depend on the size and location of the tumor. A common symptom includes a tubular adenoma polyp. Other symptoms may consist of:

• Rectal bleeding
• Change in bowel habits
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Bloating or gas
• Intestinal obstruction (if the tumor is large)
• Colon Polyps

A tubular adenoma is typically diagnosed with a colonoscopy or biopsy. A thin, flexible tube with a camera gets inserted into the rectum during a colonoscopy. This tube passes through the intestines, allowing a closer look at the inside of the colon to identify any abnormal growths. A doctor may also take a sample from a tubular adenoma polyp for further inspection.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment options for a tubular adenoma include surgical removal of the tumor and regular surveillance for recurrence.

There is no sure way to prevent the development of a tubular adenoma. However, some lifestyle changes may reduce the risk, such as:

• Quitting smoking
• Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercising regularly
• Limiting alcohol consumption

If a person has symptoms of a tubular adenoma, such as rectal bleeding or a change in bowel habits, they must see their doctor for a diagnosis. Treatment options are available, and early detection is critical to preventing serious complications.

Complications

While most of these tumors are benign and do not cause any complications, there is a small risk that the cancer could become cancerous. Complications may include:

• Cancer: In rare cases, it can become cancerous. In addition, a sizeable tumor can cause intestinal blockage.
• Intestinal obstruction: If the tumor is large, it may cause a blockage in the intestine. This blockage can lead to abdominal pain, constipation, and vomiting.
• Rectal bleeding: If located in the rectum or colon, this type of tumor may bleed.
• Infection: If located in the intestine, it can become infected, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever.

Tubular adenomas are typically benign tumors that do not cause any complications. However, there is a small risk that the cancer could become cancerous or cause an intestinal blockage. If an individual has the mentioned symptoms, they must see their doctor for a diagnosis. Prevention is the best medicine.