The distinct characteristics of colorectal cancer of elderly patients in Korea

Abstract

Objective As the population of older people soars, colorectal cancer in elderly is rapidly increasing. We compared the clinical characteristics of colorectal cancer between older and younger age groups, and would like to collect a basic data which is needed to suggest a proper screening guideline. Materials and methods A total of 899 patients who diagnosed with primary colorectal cancer at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, from May 2003 to January 2009, were enrolled. The pathologic, surgical, colonoscopic report, and case notes of each patient were reviewed. Results Of the 899 enrolled patients, 369 (41%) were 65 years old or older (older group). The proportion of right colon cancer was higher in older group (30.6% vs. 21.7%, p = 0.003). The proportion of patients with mucinous adenocarcinoma was lower in older group (2.2% vs. 5.9%, p = 0.007) and the hemoglobin level at diagnosis was also lower in older group (mean ± SD, 12.1 ± 2.45 vs. 13.0 ± 2.28, p < 0.001). There was a female predominance of right colon cancer (29.6% vs. 22.6%, p = 0.023). Conclusion In elderly and female patients, total colonoscopic examination should be considered in surveillance.