The Etiology and Pathogenesis of Colorectal Cancer

Weledji EP

Department of Surgery, University of Buea, Cameroon

^*Correspondance to: Elroy Patrick Weledji 

 PDF  Full Text Review Article | Open Access

Abstract:

Detailed awareness of the relative risks of the aetiologic factors (age, diet, gut microbiota, obesity, chronic inflammation, familial) and the mechanisms of effect and evidence for the pathogenesis of Colorectal Cancer (CRC) are important. The aim of this review was to discuss the etiology and pathogenesis of colorectal cancer. The underlying mechanisms in colorectal cancer carcinogenesis entails the understanding of the polygenic and single gene alterations in sporadic, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) and familial Microsatellite Instability/Mismatch Repair (MSIhigh/ dMMR) tumors such as Lynch/Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC) syndromes. The understanding of the possible sequence of genetic changes through key mutations in the development of colorectal polyps and invasive cancer (adenoma-carcinoma sequence) is crucial. While a major role for diet in the etiology of colorectal cancer is incontrovertible, the culprit dietary component has not yet been positively identified. There is the potential for colorectal cancer microbiota serving as biomarker for CRC. Although most colorectal cancers are sporadic, genetic factors make a significant contribution. The knowledge of specific genetic events which take place in colorectal carcinogenesis may well have implications for diagnosis, prognosis and ultimately for gene and personalized biological therapy. Future research will identify the best ways to regulate the gut microbiota in reducing the burden of CRC.

Keywords:

Cancer; Colorectal; Etiology; Pathogenesis; Adenoma-carcinoma sequence

Cite the Article:

Weledji EP. The Etiology and Pathogenesis of Colorectal Cancer. Clin Oncol. 2024;9:2046..