Background
Colorectal cancer is common, over 13 000 cases were diagnosed in Australia in 2005.
The pathogenesis of colorectal cancer has been well investigated and usually occurs in a
predictable sequence progressing from dysplasia, to carcinoma in situ before becoming
an invasive malignancy. The symptoms and signs of colorectal polyps and masses are
often nonspecific, however, given that polyps are easily cured with polypectomy, it
is vital to have an accurate and acceptable diagnostic test. Traditional tests include
conventional (optical) colonoscopy and double contrast barium enema. Computed
tomographic (CT) colonography is a newer, minimally invasive method for examining
the colon for colorectal polyps.
Objective
To inform general practitioners about CT colonography, its evidence, indications,
controversies and extracolonic ancillary findings.
Discussion
The evidence supporting CT colonography is discussed along with how it is performed,
as well as a discussion of the factors unique to it, such as extracolonic findings and
polyp management.
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