[An approximation to familial colorectal cancer]

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common neoplasms in western countries and is a worldwide public health problem. A substantial number of cases show familial aggregation of the disease, termed familial colorectal cancer to distinguish it from well-established hereditary forms. The present review discusses current knowledge of the underlying genetic causes, the most appropriate screening strategies and the potential prognostic implications of this entity.