Familial Adenomatous Polyposis is often mistaken as colon cancer. Although it can be described as a cancer predisposition disorder, FAP is certainly not as grave as the Big C. It is a rare inherited disease, signified by the appearance of multiple polyps in and around the colon. These colorectal polyps are desmoid, meaning strictly non-cancerous. Little did you know that FAP occurs due to genetic mutation. For greenhorns, the term might raise quite a few doubts, right?
For starters, what does genetic mutation really mean? Well, before answering that, let’s dig a little deeper. A human body holds numerous genes and hormones, playing crucial roles in some way. Similar are the tumor suppressor genes. These genes bar eruption of tumors. FAP is reckoned as an offshoot of flawed tumor suppressing genes. Results? It paves way for multiple cells to pop up in the intestinal walls. These polyps are certainly benign in nature. However, if left untreated for long, the cells age and turns malignant in a later period.
Signs to keeps tabs on:
Hundreds of colorectal polyps do not grow in a day. There are some obvious signs one must keep note of to stay clear from the disorder. Since Familial Adenomatous Polyposis is an inherited condition, do get tested frequently if your parents or siblings are already targeted. Some commonly observed symptoms include:
– Minor or major discomfort around the intestinal tract. Specifically, in the large intestine and rectum.
– Blood in the stool. Unfortunately, bleeding can also be internal. Do visit a professional if you are suffering from anemia out of nowhere. Massive iron deficiency could be an aftermath of internal bleeding.
– Sudden change of bowel habits. Also, care more if you are encountering problems of constipation or diarrhea for more than six weeks. It could be a potential symptom of FAP.
– Excruciating pain in the abdomen and rectal passage.
– Weight loss without a reason. Don’t be happy by watching your weight scale down without any hard efforts. It might be a thing to worry. Malignancy of colorectal polyps are first diagnosed if sudden weight loss is identified.
– Osteomata or bony growths can be spotted.
– Sebaceous cysts and growths on the jaw are common offshoots too.
– A condition of congenital hypertrophy of the retina may occur. This fortunately does not affect vision but must be cured to prevent massive impairment.
Treatment:
FAP can easily be treated if detected early. The modules are divided based on genotype. While anti-inflammatory drugs like Sulindac might be prescribed to nip the growth of polyps. Adverse conditions require prophylactic surgeries to be executed for an ultimate relief from the disorder.
Unlike most diseases, including Big C, FAP is quite a rare subject often discussed about. Solving the problem is FAPVoice.com. It brings on board a community, particularly designed to aid people targeted with the inherited gene condition. Every member in the portal is your friend. Feel free to discuss and learn about your problems. Resourceful information panels are also accessible for your better understanding. Cherry on the cake – there are ace healthcare providers in the community right at your fingertips. Check it out!
