Evaluation of presenting features of right-sided colonic carcinoma in a tertiary level hospital

Introduction: Right-sided colonic carcinoma (RCC) is a distinct clinical entity within colorectal cancer, often presenting with subtle and non-specific symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis and poorer outcomes. Unlike left-sided colorectal cancer, which frequently manifests with overt rectal bleeding and altered bowel habits, RCC is more commonly associated with anemia, weight loss, and vague abdominal discomfort. The study aimed to evaluate the presenting features of right-sided colonic carcinoma in a tertiary-level hospital. Methods: This cross-sectional type of observational study was conducted at the Department of Surgery, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. The study was conducted from July 2012 to January 2013. 100 patients who have undergone operative treatment for carcinoma of the right colon in different surgical units of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria were the participants of this study. Data were collected and analyzed by SPSS-16. Result: The study revealed that right-sided colonic carcinoma was most common in males (74%) and predominantly affected individuals in their 6th decade of life (44%). The most frequently involved site was the cecum (56%), followed by the ascending colon (30%) and hepatic flexure (14%). The most common presenting symptoms were weight loss, anorexia, and weakness (82%), abdominal pain (64%), nausea and dyspepsia (60%), and an abdominal lump (56%). Notably, anemia was present in 86% of patients, with 58% having hemoglobin levels between 50-75%. Conclusion: This study concludes that RCC often presents at an advanced stage with non-specific symptoms such as weight loss, anemia, abdominal pain, and an abdominal lump, rather than overt rectal bleeding. The predominance of cases in older males, the association with smoking, and the high prevalence of anemia emphasize the need for early recognition and screening, particularly in high-risk populations.