Multiple Carcinomas of the Large Bowel

Abstract

Patients [121] with 2 or more large bowel cancers were studied. An evaluation of the site of incidence of 2nd cancers in patients presenting with metachronous disease supports the concept that increased delivery of bile acids to the colon may play a role in tumor pathogenesis. Because of the extremely high incidence of advanced tumors in patients with metachronous disease, every effort should be made to identify those patients who should undergo a preventive total abdominal colectomy. Newer methods with increased sensitivity are required to improve the follow-up of patients who are prone to develop 2nd neoplasms of the large bowel.