Interval colorectal cancer in a Dutch population: Epidemiological, clinical and pathological characteristics and molecular analysis.

In routine practice, interval colorectal cancers (cancers that develop after a colonoscopy) are more common than previously expected. Variations between endoscopists with regard to detection and effective treatment of precursor lesions, as well as differences in biology are critical factors, yet their precise contribution remains unclear. In view of the forthcoming screening for colorectal cancers (CRCs) in the Netherlands, this issue is timely as it may permit to design more effective CRC preventive strategies and provide new insights into the pathogenesis of CRC.

What are the causes of interval colorectal cancers? Are they the result of technology related or biology related factors?

1. Interval colorectal cancers (CRCs) are more common than expected;

2. Interval CRCs are characterized by a different macroscopic appearance, rendering them more likely to be missed in routine colonoscopy;

3. Precursor lesions of interval CRCs have different molecular features which are associated with an increased risk for rapid progression to CRC.

N/A

None: "niet WMO-plichtig onderzoek".



Retrospective analysis of clinical and pathology records, and molecular analysis on resection specimen.