About Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer

What is Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer?

Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) is an inherited form of colorectal cancer. It is caused by a mutation in one of several genes that normally help to repair damaged DNA. People with HNPCC have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer, as well as other types of cancer, such as endometrial, ovarian, stomach, small intestine, hepatobiliary, urinary tract, brain, and skin cancers.

What are the symptoms of Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer?

The most common symptom of Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC) is the presence of colorectal polyps, which are growths on the lining of the colon or rectum. Other symptoms may include:

- Abdominal pain

- Blood in the stool

- Unexplained weight loss

- Unexplained fatigue

- Anemia

- Diarrhea

- Rectal bleeding

- Change in bowel habits

- Nausea and vomiting

- Unexplained fever

- Abdominal swelling or bloating

- Unexplained Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

What are the causes of Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer?

Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) is caused by inherited mutations in certain genes, including MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and EPCAM. These mutations are passed down from parent to child and can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Other risk factors for HNPCC include a family history of colorectal cancer, a personal history of certain types of cancer, and certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking and a diet high in red and processed meats.

What are the treatments for Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer?

1. Surgery: Surgery is the primary treatment for Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC). Depending on the stage of the cancer, surgery may involve removing the entire colon, rectum, and nearby lymph nodes.

2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery to treat HNPCC. It involves using drugs to kill cancer cells.

3. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to shrink tumors before surgery or to kill any remaining cancer cells after surgery.

4. Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a newer type of treatment that uses drugs to target specific molecules in cancer cells. This type of therapy may be used to treat HNPCC.

5. Clinical Trials: Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments for HNPCC. Participating in a

What are the risk factors for Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer?

1. Family history of HNPCC: Having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with HNPCC increases the risk of developing the condition.

2. Age: HNPCC is more common in people over the age of 50.

3. Gender: HNPCC is more common in women than in men.

4. Ethnicity: HNPCC is more common in people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent.

5. Genetic mutations: Mutations in certain genes, such as MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2, increase the risk of HNPCC.

Is there a cure/medications for Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer?

There is no cure for Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC). However, there are medications that can be used to help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. These medications include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Additionally, surgery may be recommended to remove tumors or affected areas of the colon.