What is a Colon Tumor?
A colon tumor is an abnormal growth of cells found in the colon and can be an indication of colon cancer. If the colon tumor spreads to the bottom part of the colon, also known as the rectum, it can be an indication of colorectal cancer. Some colon tumors are non-cancerous and are called benign polyps. Since benign polyps do not cause colon cancer, they are not dangerous, but if they are not identified and removed, they can change into cancerous tumors. Benign polyps are identified and removed through a procedure called a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a doctor inserts a long, plastic, flexible tube into the colon through the rectum. The tube is fitted with a camera and allows the doctor to see inside of the colon. If the doctor sees any abnormal growth or a colon tumor, he can remove it immediately and test it for colon cancer. Other tests used to screen for colon cancer are a fecal blood test, a sigmoidoscopy, a virtual colonoscopy, a double contrast barium enema