Duke’s Classification And Colon Cancer

In regards to colon cancer, Duke's Classification is a system that is used to categorize the severity of colon cancer. Modified in the late 70's, this system is broken down into four categories. Stage 1 is the earliest and most treatable to colon cancer stage 4 which is the most advanced stage and likely terminal.

Duke's Classification displays the progression of colon cancer in its various forms where in stages 1 and 2 there is generally no lymph node involvement. In stages 3 and 4 there is lymph node involvement and the prognosis is grim. When the cancer has not spread to the lymph nodes the chance of survival over a period determined in years is more than half. However, once the cancer has entered the lymph nodes the prognosis is less than half.

Cancer that has spread to the later stages is the most advanced. As the cancer metastasizes it quickly can spread to the liver, lungs, bones, and the brain. Many times the cancer that has not metastasized will be treated but will return in the future affecting other organs. In other words the cancer would reappear and spread throughout the other organs. It is obviously worse if the cancer has spread to other organ as dealing with just one area is much easier to treat; however, that is not always the case.

Duke's Classification specifically embarks on the fact that later stages of colon cancer offer grave hope. Once the cancer has spread to other organs, that are vital to life, then removing them or even parts of them is no longer an option. At that point it is best to make the patient as comfortable as possible during their final time. No one can really determine exactly when that time will be except our maker. Miracles do happen and there are survivor stories that are very enlightening and inspiring to read.

This is why early detection is so crucial and can not be emphasized enough. The next time that you drive by and see a sign that says get your colonoscopy today; it might not be a bad idea to stop in.