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Abstract
This case report explores
the diagnosis of colorectal
carcinoma in a 42-year-old
female with a history of anxiety
and irritable bowel syndrome
(IBS). Colorectal cancer,
commonly diagnosed in individuals
over 60, is increasingly being
identified in younger populations.
The patient presented with
intermittent gastrointestinal
symptoms, initially managed
as IBS, and underwent stepwise
investigations including blood
tests, stool cultures, and
imaging, all yielding non-concerning
findings. However, a positive
faecal immunochemical test
(FIT) led to a colonoscopy,
confirming colorectal carcinoma.
The case highlights the complexities
of diagnosing serious conditions
in patients without obvious
red flags, the importance
of timely screening, and the
impact of mental health on
diagnostic delays. The report
also discusses the challenges
of primary care systems, such
as continuity of care and
the patient’s mental
health history, which potentially
delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Keywords:
Colorectal cancer, younger
population, Irritable bowel
syndrome (IBS)
Faecal immunochemical test
(FIT), Mental health, Diagnostic
delays, Primary care
Screening, anxiety, Multidisciplinary
team (MDT)
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