Pathology sub-classifications

Colorectal cancer results from the accumulation of several genetic errors (mutations ) in normal cells - for example as result of chronic inflammation of the bowel – turning them abnormal.

Then the process of carcinogenesis  in itself triggers further changes in these cancer cells, ultimately making each tumor unique.

As consequence, only after a pathology examination of the tumor can its type and specific characteristics be determined.

A pathology examination looks at structural and functional changes produced by disease to make a diagnosis. Changes can be microscopic, chemical, immunologic, etc.

Legend:

Examination of cells under the microscope allows to determine if a tumor is benign or malignant, but also the tumor grade (its aggressiveness).

Specific biochemical tests can predict the tumor evolution, and its response to specific treatments, such as cetuximab (Erbitux®) or panitumumab (Vectibix®).

Tumor samples can be obtained by cutting a polyp or a fragment of tissue during a colonoscopy, or from the tumor extracted during surgery.

The pathologist (the clinical specialist that diagnoses disease) runs a series of tests on the tumor sample to determine what kind of mutations it carries.

The results allow to predict the tumor evolution, as well as its response to certain medications.
The pathological analysis is the only exam able to determine with certainty if a tumor is malignant, and what type of cancer it is.

Learn more about tumor grades , a term often used in the pathology reports, as well as tests for colorectal cancer mutations or microsatellite instability