Intestinal Neoplasia

Introduction

• Tumours may develop from any of the components of the intestinal wall.
  • May be of either a benign or malignant variation.
• Tumours have a wide range of effects on intestinal funtion.
  1. Many malignant tumours cause intestinal obstruction at their point of origin.
     • E.g. intestinal adenocarcinomas, solitary lymphomas.
     • Onset is often gradual (unlike most foreign bodies)
     • Benign tumours can also cause obstruction, but this is most likely if they
       • Protrude into the lumen
       • Are located at a compressible site, e.g. within the pelvis, at the duodenal flexure.
  2. Tumours that diffusely infiltrate the mucosa cause diahorrea due to malabsorption and development of a protein losing enteropathy.
     • E.g. diffuse alimentary lymphoma.
  3. Benign or malignant tumours can result in mucosal erosion or ulceration.
     • Blood is lost, causing haemorrhagic anaemia.
       • Prolonged bleeding can cause iron deficiency anaemia.
     • Extensive tumour necrosis may occur due to rapid growth or secondary infection.
       • This can cause gradual or sudden perforation and peritonitis.