Colorectal Cancer Diagnostic Methods: The Present and Future

Cureus. 2023 Apr 15;15(4):e37622. doi: 10.7759/cureus.37622. eCollection 2023 Apr.

Abstract

To meet the needs of the colorectal cancer (CRC) patient population, colorectal cancer screening is continuously updated. The most significant advice is to start CRC screening exams at age 45 for people at average risk for CRC. CRC testing is divided into two categories: stool-based tests and visual inspections. High-sensitivity guaiac-based fecal occult blood testing, fecal immunochemical testing, and multitarget stool DNA testing are stool-based assays. Colon capsule endoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy are visualization examinations. There have been arguments about the importance of these tests in detecting and managing precursor lesions because of the lack of validation of screening results. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence and genetics have prompted the creation of newer diagnostic tests, which require validation in diverse populations and cohorts. In this article, we have discussed the present and emerging diagnostic tests.

Keywords: artificial intelligence in medicine; colo-rectal carcinoma; colon cancer prevention; flexible sigmoidoscopy; presence of blood in stool; screening colonoscopy; serum biomarkers.

Publication types

  • Review