Familial Adenomatous Polyposis
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) is a genetic disorder characterized by the development of numerous polyps in the lining of the colon and rectum. These polyps typically begin to appear in adolescence or early adulthood and have a high risk of turning into colorectal cancer if not treated. FAP is caused by mutations in the APC gene, which is crucial for regulating cell growth.
Individuals with FAP often require regular screening and may undergo preventive surgery, such as a colectomy, to remove the colon and reduce cancer risk. Family members of affected individuals may also be tested for the APC gene mutation to assess their risk of developing the condition.