About Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

What is Familial Adenomatous Polyposis?

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an inherited disorder characterized by the formation of hundreds to thousands of polyps in the lining of the colon and rectum. These polyps can become cancerous if left untreated. FAP is caused by a mutation in the APC gene, which is responsible for controlling cell growth and division. Symptoms of FAP include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and changes in bowel habits. Treatment typically involves regular colonoscopies to monitor for polyps and surgery to remove them.

What are the symptoms of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis?

The most common symptom of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) is the presence of multiple polyps in the large intestine (colon). These polyps can cause abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, and anemia. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.

What are the causes of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis?

Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) is an inherited condition caused by a mutation in the APC gene. This gene is responsible for controlling the growth of cells in the lining of the colon. When the APC gene is mutated, it causes the cells to grow out of control, forming polyps in the colon. These polyps can become cancerous if left untreated.

What are the treatments for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis?

1. Surgery: Surgery is the primary treatment for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). This involves removing the entire colon and rectum, and then creating a new pathway for waste to leave the body.

2. Medications: Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin can help reduce the number of polyps in the colon.

3. Diet: Eating a high-fiber diet and avoiding red meat can help reduce the risk of developing polyps.

4. Screening: Regular screening for polyps is important for people with FAP. This includes colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies, and other tests.

5. Genetic Counseling: Genetic counseling can help people with FAP understand their risk of passing the condition on to their

What are the risk factors for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis?

1. Family history of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)
2. Inheriting a mutated APC gene
3. Age (most cases are diagnosed before age 40)
4. Gender (FAP is more common in males)
5. Ethnicity (FAP is more common in people of Northern European descent)
6. Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as smoking or a high-fat diet.

Is there a cure/medications for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis?

Yes, there are treatments available for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). The main treatment is surgery to remove the polyps, which can help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Other treatments include medications to reduce the number of polyps, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin, and medications to reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer, such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and celecoxib. In some cases, genetic counseling and genetic testing may be recommended.