Friday 24 September 2010

MRCP revision battle 19.5: Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer

Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer is an autosomal dominant condition associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.


90% of patients with HNPCC develop cancers, usually in the proximal colon and often poorly differentiated/highly aggressive cancers.


There is also an increased risk of breast, ovary and endometrial cancers.


HNPCC is defined by the Amsterdam criteria:
  • at least 3 family members with colon cancer (one a 1st degree relative)
  • at least 2 generations affected
  • at least 1 diagnosed under 50 yrs of age


Thats quite enough bowels for one day, lets come up for some oxygen...