Imaging Findings in Benign and Malignant Colon Tumors

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is among the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. They are broadly categorized into benign and malignant entities. Benign colonic neoplasms typically include adenomatous polyps,Colorectal cancer is among the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. They are broadly categorized into benign and malignant entities. Benign colonic neoplasms typically include adenomatous polyps, hyperplastic polyps, lipomas, leiomyomas, and neurofibromas. These noncancerous growths often present asymptomatically or with nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain or altered bowel habits. Malignant colonic growths predominantly consist of primary colorectal carcinomas which originate from mucosal epithelial cells lining the bowel wall, and lymphoma. Early and accurate differentiation between benign and malignant colon tumors is crucial for appropriate patient management, prognosis, and therapeutic strategies. Imaging methods are at the forefront in the diagnosis, staging and post- treatment follow-up of colorectal tumors. Ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging should be used as complementary radiological methods depending on the patient and/or disease status.