Symptoms of colon cancer on the skin: what you should know |

Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer, mainly affects the large intestine and rectum. It is among the most common cancers in the United Kingdom and in the world, which has an impact on thousands of lives each year. Although digestive symptoms such as changes in intestinal habits, abdominal pain, bloating and unexplained weight loss are well known, colon cancer can also cause symptoms on the skin, although these are relatively rare. Skin signs such as nodules, rashes, ulcers or notable changes in pigmentation may indicate that cancer has spread, progresses or has reached advanced stages. Recognizing these early unusual skin symptoms may be crucial for timely diagnosis, medical intervention and effective treatment, considerably improving the results and survival rates for those affected by this serious disease. Take a look.

How colon cancer can affect the skin

The colon cancer comes from the lining of the colon but can spread beyond the primary site. At advanced stages, cancer cells can be metastaster (spread) to other parts of the body, including the skin. Symptoms of the skin related to colon cancer can be due to:

Common skin symptoms related to colon cancer

According to a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), skin manifestations in colon cancer patients, such as nodules and rashes, often indicate metastatic spread and can serve as significant clinical signs for early diagnosis and treatment planning. Recognition of these symptoms can quickly improve patient results by facilitating timely intervention.1. Skin nodules or lesionsOne of the most recognized skin symptoms of colon cancer metastases is the appearance of firm and painless nodules or lumps on the skin. These lesions can vary in color, often reddish, purple or toned of skin, and can appear anywhere but are frequently found on the abdomen, chest or around surgical scars.2. Skin or erythema eruptionIn some cases, colon cancer can trigger a rash or persistent redness called erythema. This may be due to paraneoplastic syndromes, where the immune system reacts abnormally to the presence of cancer. These skin changes may appear before other symptoms, signaling an underlying malignant tumor, and should cause a timely assessment, especially when accompanied by weight loss or unexplained fatigue.3. Skin ulcers and infectionsCancer lesions on the skin can decompose, forming ulcers or open wounds which are slow to heal. These can become secondary infection sites, causing pain, discomfort, swelling, foul smell and increased risk of systemic infection, requiring rapid medical assessment and appropriate wound care.4. Hyperpigmentation and other changesRarely, patients can undergo changes in color or texture of the skin, including darkening (hyperpigmentation) or thickening of the skin, as well as itching, drought, sensitivity or development of small bumps. These skin alterations may indicate vascular, autoimmune or underlying systemic problems requiring medical assessment for precise diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, the skin metastases of colon cancer occur in approximately 3 to 6% of patients, indicating a bad prognosis but providing significant clinical indices.

When to see a doctor

If you notice unusual skin changes such as persistent lumps, wounds that do not heal or unexplained rashes, especially if you have a history of colon cancer or related symptoms (for example, changes in intestinal habits, abdominal pain, an unexplained weight loss), quickly a health professional.Early detection can considerably improve treatment results. It is therefore important not to reject these signs. Notice of non-responsibility: This article is for information purposes only and does not replace advice, diagnosis or professional treatment. Always consult your health care provider for personalized advice regarding any medical condition.Read also | Risk factors for colon cancer: what is increasing your chances?