Endoscopy vs Colonoscopy: Detecting Colon Cancer

Introduction

In the context of colorectal cancer detection, the
common misconception is that an endoscopy can detect colon
cancer just as a colonoscopy does. This article clarifies the
difference between these procedures and their respective roles
in diagnosing colorectal cancer.

What is an Endoscopy?

An endoscopy is a general term used to describe
procedures that use a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) to
examine internal organs and tissues. Endoscope is a collective
name, and within this category, a colonoscope is a specific
type of endoscope designed to examine the colon. The colon
comprises several parts, including the sigmoid colon, ascending
colon, transverse colon, and descending colon, and a colonoscope
must reach all these areas to perform a thorough examination.

Colonoscopy: A Closer Look

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure specifically used
to examine the colon. During this procedure, polyps or growths
may be detected, but polyps are not directly indicative of cancer.
The polyps are removed and sent for a biopsy, and it is through
the examination of these samples in a laboratory setting that
the presence of cancer can be confirmed. The process involves pathological examination by a pathologist.

Types of Endoscopy

Other than colonoscopy, various endoscopic procedures are used
to diagnose different parts of the body. Here’s an overview of
several types of endoscopy:

Colonoscopy: Looks into the large intestines Upper endoscopy/gastroscopy: Into the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine Enteroscopy: Into the small intestinal Cystoscopy: Into the bladder Hysteroscopy: Into the womb Arthroscopy: Into the joints Bronchoscopy: Into the airways Thoracoscopy: Into the chest cavity Laparoscopy: Into the abdomen

Understanding the Limitations

Though these procedures are versatile, their reach is limited.
A colonoscopy and upper endoscopy are designed to examine
specific regions. An upper endoscopy does not see into the
colon. Instead, it examines the esophagus, stomach, and the
initial part of the small intestine. The small intestine is indeed
long, about 20 feet in length, and is found in the mid-abdomen.
Endoscopes used in upper endoscopy cannot reach the colon.

How Endoscopes Spot Cancer

During a colonoscopy, a doctor can directly visualize the digestive system tissue. If a tumor, polyp, or mass is found,
or if the colon walls appear irritated or inflamed, a biopsy is usually taken. The lab test results from the pathological examination
by a pathologist will confirm or rule out cancer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both colonoscopy and endoscopy are
useful in diagnosing cancer, their roles and limitations differ.
A colonoscopy is specifically designed to examine the colon,
whereas endoscopy refers to a range of procedures with specific
targets. Understanding these differences is crucial for patients
and healthcare providers alike.