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Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Competing-Risk Nomogram for Predicting Cancer-Specific Survival in Multiple Primary Colorectal Cancer Patients after Surgery
Published on: September 27, 2024
Non-polypoid colorectal neoplasms are relatively common worldwide
Ana Ignjatovic1, Brian P Saunders
1Wolfson Unit for Endoscopy, Imperial College, St Mark's Hospital, Watford Road, Harrow, HA1 3UJ, London, UK.
Flat adenomas are common, but flat colorectal cancers are rare (5-10% of colonoscopies). Flat lesions with depression pose a significant malignancy risk, potentially preceding small, flat cancers.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
- Endoscopy
Background:
- Flat adenomas are frequently detected during colonoscopies globally.
- Small, flat, submucosally invasive colorectal cancers are uncommon, representing 5-10% of cancers found during colonoscopy.
- Defining flat lesions consistently is challenging, leading to study variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics and malignant potential of flat colorectal neoplasms.
- To differentiate between flat elevated lesions and flat lesions with depression.
- To clarify the role of flat lesions as precursors to colorectal cancer.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on flat colorectal neoplasms.
- Analysis of colonoscopy findings and pathological reports.
- Comparison of flat lesion definitions and their impact on reported frequencies.
Main Results:
- Flat elevated lesions are common and have a low risk of malignancy.
- Flat lesions with depression are associated with a significant risk of malignancy.
- These depressed flat lesions may be precursors to small, flat, or ulcerating cancers.
Conclusions:
- Flat lesions with depression represent a high-risk group for colorectal cancer development.
- Standardized definitions are needed for accurate assessment of flat colorectal neoplasms.
- Early identification and management of depressed flat lesions are crucial for cancer prevention.
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