Laterally spreading tumours of the colorectum: an alternative pathway of colorectal cancer development in the Western world

Colorectal cancer develops from precursors called adenomas. Mostly, these grow out from the wall of the bowel to form polyps, which are easily seen at colonoscopy, and well researched. However, some adenomas are flat, and spread sideways to form laterally spreading tumours (LSTs). This under-recognised type of tumour is more likely to progress to cancer, and may be an important cause of bowel cancer. This project will comprehensively investigate the genetics and biology of LSTs in Australia.