PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is a common symptom of colorectal cancer?

1. Weight gain

2. Rectal bleeding

3. Elevated liver enzymes

4. Knee pain

The correct answer is: Rectal bleeding

Rectal bleeding is a common symptom of colorectal cancer, and it can manifest as blood in the stool or rectal bleeding when a patient defecates. This symptom often prompts further investigation, such as a colonoscopy, because of its association with malignancies of the colon or rectum. As the tumor grows, it can lead to ulceration of the bowel lining, which may result in bleeding. Weight gain is generally not associated with colorectal cancer; instead, patients may experience weight loss due to changes in appetite or malabsorption. Elevated liver enzymes can indicate liver involvement but are not a direct symptom of colorectal cancer itself, and knee pain does not typically correlate with this type of cancer, as it is more related to musculoskeletal issues rather than gastrointestinal malignancies. Therefore, rectal bleeding serves as a significant warning sign and is an important symptom to consider when evaluating potential colorectal cancer.