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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Cologuard Tests Be Taken After Removal Of Pre-cancerous Polyps?

I had a colonoscopy done about 7 years ago. No polyps were discovered. I had a colonoscopy done 3 years previous to that, and 5 "pre-cancerous" polyps were removed. I'd like to have the "Colo- Guard" test done, but it says that I shouldn't because I had at one time had "pre-cancerous" polyps removed. Why can't I have the Colo-guard test done? I am 70 years old, and don't want another colonoscopy, if at all possible.
Mon, 13 Nov 2017
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

Cologuard test is based on checking stool’s altered DNA and/or blood that might be associated with colorectal pre-cancers or cancers. Because of your personal history of "pre-cancerous" polyps Cologuard test cannot be used. It is highly likely the test to give false results. Cologuard cannot replace surveillance colonoscopy after the removal of polyps.
I understand your concerns that colonoscopy is invasive and unpleasant test but it is the most effective tool for preventing colon cancer after colorectal polypectomy.

I hope I have answered your question. Please, feel free to ask me more in HCM if there is anything else you need to know.

Thank you,
Dr.Malik
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Can Cologuard Tests Be Taken After Removal Of Pre-cancerous Polyps?

Hi, Thank you for your query. Cologuard test is based on checking stool’s altered DNA and/or blood that might be associated with colorectal pre-cancers or cancers. Because of your personal history of pre-cancerous polyps Cologuard test cannot be used. It is highly likely the test to give false results. Cologuard cannot replace surveillance colonoscopy after the removal of polyps. I understand your concerns that colonoscopy is invasive and unpleasant test but it is the most effective tool for preventing colon cancer after colorectal polypectomy. I hope I have answered your question. Please, feel free to ask me more in HCM if there is anything else you need to know. Thank you, Dr.Malik