Colorectal Cancer Fast Tracks: Cancer Yield and the Predictive Value of Entry Criteria

Abstract

Background: Fast-track pathways for diagnosing colorectal cancer (CRC) have been implemented in several European countries. In Sweden, a substantial number of CRC are diagnosed via the Swedish Standardized Course of Care for colorectal cancer (SCC-CRC). We evaluated the SCC-CRC in terms of CRC yield, and predictive values and odds ratios (OR) for the entry criteria. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed all 2539 patients referred for SCC-CRC colonoscopy between September 2016 and December 2020. Entry criteria and colonoscopy outcomes were analyzed. Results: CRC yield was 16.4%. Highest positive predictive values (PPVs) were seen for abnormal radiology (PPV 30.5%, OR 4.7 (95% CI 3.4–6.4) p < 0.001), abnormal rectal examination (PPV 28%, OR 3.6 (95% CI 2.7–4.8) p < 0.001), and anemia (PPV 24.8%, OR 2.2 (95% CI 1.5–3.1) p < 0.001). Some entry criteria showed no significant risk increase, i.e., visible blood in stool/rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, and the combination of changed bowel habits plus anemia. A positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT), although not part of the SCC-CRC, showed the highest OR: 9.9 (95% CI 4.5–21.7) p < 0.001) and PPV of 18.8%. Conclusions: CRC yield from the SCC-CRC is slightly higher compared to other European fast tracks. A number of entry criteria showed no benefit towards assessing CRC risk. FIT testing should be included in CRC fast tracks to increase diagnostic efficacy.