NCIt definition : An autosomal dominant disorder, characterized by the presence of multiple adenomas
in the colon and rectum. It is caused by a germline mutation in the adenomatous polyposis
coli (APC) gene which is located on the long arm of chromosome 5. The adenomas are
most often tubular, and they have the tendency to progress to adenocarcinoma. They
can occur throughout the colon, but they tend to concentrate in the rectum and sigmoid
colon. The colorectal adenomas are detected during endoscopic examination between
the age of 10 and 20 years. The adenomas increase in size and numbers with age, and
there is usually progression of one or more adenomas to adenocarcinoma. The mean age
of development of adenocarcinoma is about 40 years. Signs include rectal bleeding
and mucousy diarrhea.;
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: An inherited condition in which numerous polyps (growths that protrude
from mucous membranes) form on the inside walls of the colon and rectum. It increases
the risk for colon cancer.;
ICD-O code : 8220/0;
Codes from synonyms : CDR0000045688; CDR0000045100; CDR0000044777;