Faecal Immunochemical Test and Urine Volatile Compounds in Adenoma Detection

The Performance of Faecal Immunochemical Test and Urinary Volatile Compounds in the Detection of Colorectal Adenomas and Their Role in Polyp Surveillance

Bowel cancer can arise from polyps, which can become cancerous. Polyps are little outgrowths within the lining of the bowel (similar to skin warts). Depending on their size and their potential to become cancerous, they can cause bleeding. However, it is not known which polyps harbour cancerous potential. Therefore, at present all patients undergo a colonoscopy (camera examination of the large bowel) in order to identify and remove any polyps. However, not all patients who undergo a colonoscopy will have polyps. Moreover, colonoscopies are invasive and disruptive to patients, as they require bowel preparation. The aim of this study is to evaluate non-invasive stool and urine tests to identify patients who are at risk of polyps and if the polyps have the potential to become cancerous. This in turn, will significantly reduce the number of 'unnecessary' polyp surveillance colonoscopies with resultant benefits to both patients and the National Health Service (NHS).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients who are on a polyp surveillance programme and will be undergoing colonoscopy examination for polyp surveillance OR Patients who will be undergoing elective polypectomy through specialised polyp multi-disciplinary meetings.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participants who are unable to attend colonoscopy
• Under 18 years old
• Unable to provide informed consent for themselves to take part in this study