Related Experiment Video For case report
Updated: Aug 28, 2025

Deficient Pms2, ERCC1, Ku86, CcOI in Field Defects During Progression to Colon Cancer
Published on: July 28, 2010
Case report: Melanosis coli combined with colon cancer, causality or coincidence?
Wei Zhao1, Jianan Chen1, Hongbin Xing2
1Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
Abstract:
The habitual use of laxative containing anthraquinone glycosides is considered to be the main cause of melanosis coli (MC). In the past, most scholars considered MC to be a benign and reversible disease. However, new evidence has emerged that MC may increase the risk of colon cancer. Here, we report a case of a 48-year-old woman diagnosed with MC and colon cancer. Through a literature review of previous basic and clinical studies, we summarize existing evidence that reveals the possible association between MC and colon cancer. Although this case cannot establish causality between MC and colon cancer, a high level of clinical vigilance for occurrence of colon cancer in patients with MC should be maintained.
Related Concept Videos
Cancers Originate from Somatic Mutations in a Single Cell
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
Pleiotropy
Cancer Prevention
Some...

