Steven A. Sandler, M.D.
Board-Certified in
Hematology & Oncology
Telephone Numbers
Office: (847) 933-0875
Fax: (847) 933-0878
Answering Service: (773) 594-7340
Skokie Office
9669 Kenton, Suite 510
Skokie, IL 60076
Map and directions
Chicago Office
7447 W. Talcott Ave., Suite 318
Chicago, IL 60631
Map and directions
Call us at 847-933-0875 or send Dr. Sandler a message via the form below. Please note that this form is for non-emergencies only.
Colon Cancer Information and Treatment
About Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the US, and the third leading cause of cancer death in men and women. Colon cancer is largely preventable by getting regular screening, maintaining a healthy weight, and being physically active.
Colon cancer forms in the tissues of the colon, the longest part of the large intestine. Most cases of colon cancer begin as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called adenomatous polyps. Over time some of these polyps can become cancerous.
Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer may include:
- A change in bowel movements for more than a few weeks
- Unexplained weight loss
- Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
- Persistent abdominal discomfort such as gas or bloating
- Weakness or fatigue
- A feeling that you can’t empty your bowls completely
Colon Cancer Treatment
The treatment of colon cancer depends on the stage and extent of the disease. Patients with stage 0 and 1 colon cancer can usually be cured with surgery and do not need additional therapy to prevent the cancer from returning.
Surgery is sometimes recommended for patients with stage 2 colon cancer. Chemotherapy is recommended following surgery if they have high-risk features, such as a tumor that is poorly differentiated, obstructed or perforated, attached to other parts of the body or hard to differentiate under the microscope.
Stage 3 colon cancer patients usually have surgery followed by chemotherapy. The treatment is usually well tolerated with little to no hair loss. The most serious complication from treatment is the development of temporary nerve damage. This causes tingling, mild burning and occasional numbness in the toes and fingertips but improves over time.
Treatment for stage 4 colon cancer also involves the use of chemotherapy. This is commonly combined with a biological agent, such as Avastin, which interferes with the blood supply to the tumor. Certain patients are also eligible for Erbitux, which is an antibody directed against one of the proteins that make the cells grow.
