Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.

Although the overall incidence and mortality rates have decreased over the past few years, there has been a rise in the number of reported cases of hidden colon cancer cells, also known as micrometastases. Micrometastases are small groups of cancer cells that can spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and remain undetected until they grow into a larger tumor.

Types of hidden colon cancer cells

There are two types of hidden colon cancer cells that are of concern to healthcare providers: occult metastases and circulating tumor cells (CTCs).

Occult metastases

Occult metastases are small groups of cancer cells that are too small to be detected by standard imaging techniques, such as CT scans or MRI.

These cells can be found in the lymph nodes near the primary cancer or in distant organs, such as the liver or lungs.

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs)

CTCs are cancer cells that have detached from the primary tumor and have entered the bloodstream. These cells can potentially spread to other organs and form new tumors, making it difficult to treat or manage the cancer.

Treatments for hidden colon cancer cells

The treatment options for hidden colon cancer cells depend on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and other medical conditions. Some of the treatment options include:.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that is used to kill cancer cells throughout the body. This treatment is often given in cycles, with periods of rest in between to allow the body to recover.

Chemotherapy is most effective for micrometastases that have spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a treatment that helps the body’s immune system fight cancer. This treatment can be given alone or in combination with chemotherapy or other treatments.

Immunotherapy is most effective for micrometastases that are located in the lymph nodes or other areas of the body.

Surgery

Surgery is the most common treatment for colon cancer. This treatment involves removing the primary tumor and any nearby lymph nodes or other tissues that may contain cancer cells.

Surgery is most effective for early-stage colon cancer or micrometastases that are located in a specific area of the body.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is a treatment that uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. This treatment is often given after surgery to target any remaining cancer cells that may be left after the primary tumor is removed.

Radiation therapy is most effective for micrometastases that are located in a specific area of the body.

Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy is a treatment that targets specific molecules or proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. This treatment can be given alone or in combination with other treatments.

Targeted therapy is most effective for micrometastases that have specific genetic mutations or abnormalities.

Conclusion

Hidden colon cancer cells are a significant concern for healthcare providers, as they can lead to the development of new tumors and affect the prognosis of the disease.

The treatment options for hidden colon cancer cells depend on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and other medical conditions. A combination of treatments may be necessary to effectively manage micrometastases and prevent the spread of cancer cells.