Colorectal Cancer vs Colon Cancer
Colorectal Cancer and Colon Cancer are conditions that share some reported symptoms, which can make them easy to confuse. This guide explains the key similarities, how each is described, and how providers may investigate them. Educational content only - not a diagnosis.
About Colorectal Cancer and Colon Cancer
Colorectal Cancer: Cancer of the colon or rectum. Screening can detect it early when treatment is most effective.
Colon Cancer: Cancer of the colon or rectum, often developing from polyps, which can cause changes in bowel habits and blood in stool.
Symptoms shared by both conditions
These symptoms have been reported in association with both Colorectal Cancer and Colon Cancer.
Abdominal pain
An unpleasant sensation characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching) and perc...
Black Stools
Dark, tarry stools that usually indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract....
Change in Bowel Habits
A persistent change in the frequency or consistency of bowel movements, which should be evaluated....
Fatigue
A subjective feeling of tiredness characterized by a lack of energy and motivation....
Hematochezia
The passage of fresh (red) blood per anus, usually in or with stools. Most rectal bleeding comes from the colo...
Weight loss
Reduction of total body weight....
Symptoms of each condition
Colorectal Cancer
Abdominal pain
An unpleasant sensation characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching) and perc...
Black Stools
Dark, tarry stools that usually indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract....
Change in Bowel Habits
A persistent change in the frequency or consistency of bowel movements, which should be evaluated....
Fatigue
A subjective feeling of tiredness characterized by a lack of energy and motivation....
Hematochezia
The passage of fresh (red) blood per anus, usually in or with stools. Most rectal bleeding comes from the colo...
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Anemia caused by low iron levels, which can be a sign of bleeding or poor absorption....
Weight loss
Reduction of total body weight....
Colon Cancer
Abdominal pain
An unpleasant sensation characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching) and perc...
Black Stools
Dark, tarry stools that usually indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract....
Change in Bowel Habits
A persistent change in the frequency or consistency of bowel movements, which should be evaluated....
Fatigue
A subjective feeling of tiredness characterized by a lack of energy and motivation....
Hematochezia
The passage of fresh (red) blood per anus, usually in or with stools. Most rectal bleeding comes from the colo...
Weight loss
Reduction of total body weight....
How Colorectal Cancer may be investigated
Healthcare providers may order these tests when evaluating Colorectal Cancer.
Alpha-Fetoprotein Afp Tumor Marker Test
This blood test determines Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP or a-Fetoprotein) levels....
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Cancer & Tumor Marker Tests
Fast, easy and affordable cancer lab tests that do not require insurance or a doctor's referral. Simply order ...
Fecal Calprotectin
Helps distinguish inflammatory bowel disease from irritable bowel syndrome....
Occult Blood Fecal Test
This test, also known as a FIT or iFOBT, detects the presence of occult (hidden) blood in fecal matter....
Ovarian Cancer Blood Test
The Cancer Antigen 125 (CA-125) test is used to evaluate the blood for CA-125, a cancer tumor marker. CA-125 i...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Colorectal Cancer and Colon Cancer?
Colorectal Cancer and Colon Cancer are distinct conditions that share some reported symptoms, which is why they can be confused. Colorectal Cancer: Cancer of the colon or rectum. Screening can detect it early when treatment is most effective. Colon Cancer: Cancer of the colon or rectum, often developing from polyps, which can cause changes in bowel habits and blood in stool. This content is informational, not a diagnosis.
Can Colorectal Cancer and Colon Cancer be mistaken for each other?
Yes - because they share symptoms such as Abdominal pain, Black Stools, Change in Bowel Habits, Fatigue, they may present similarly. A qualified healthcare provider distinguishes them through history, examination, and testing.
How are Colorectal Cancer and Colon Cancer investigated?
Testing depends on the specific condition and presentation. A provider may order tests such as Alpha-Fetoprotein Afp Tumor Marker Test, CBC with Differential, Cancer & Tumor Marker Tests, Fecal Calprotectin, Iron Panel. Test selection is a clinical decision.