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The roentgenologist bears the responsibility for diagnosis of lesions of the colon above the level of direct visualization by the sigmoidoscope. With improved x-ray technic and dissemination of knowledge of methods of examination, there has been steady progress in diagnostic accuracy. There still remains, however, a reducible error, particularly in relation to small lesions of the colon. As has been repeatedly emphasized, early and accurate diagnosis of small lesions, particularly those of a polypoid type, offers the best hope for successful treatment of cancer of the colon. The relationship of the two conditions has been well established. However, the probable multiplicity of polyps of the colon or rectum de serves re-emphasis. Statistical observations indicate that lesions of the colon or rectum will be multiple in 30 to 40 per cent of all cases (1, 4). We, as roentgenologists, should not be content, therefore, to think that our job is done when the presence of a single polyp has been established by x-r...

ESTIMATIONS made from vital statistics of the United States 1 indicate that carcinoma of the large intestine accounted for approximately 33,000 deaths in 1948. Yet no other site of internal cancer is so amenable to modern treatment, with a low morbidity and a low mortality and an encouraging survival rate. This is especially true if the disease is recognized in the early phase. In spite of medical and lay cancer education, the average duration of symptoms is still over six months in all patients coming to surgery for carcinoma of the rectum and colon. Therefore, reiteration and discussion of features and recognized concepts which if utilized will lead to the early detection and treatment of malignant and premalignant lesions continue to be vital. The intimate relationship of polypoid lesions to carcinoma is so well established that the early detection and removal or destruction of these neoplasms is mandatory in the

This month's article has been prepared in collaboration with Dr. Robert D. Moseley, Jr., Chairman of the Department of Radiology at the University of Chicago. Dr. Moseley came to the University of Chicago in January 1949 as an assistant resident in radiology, having received his M.D. degree from the Louisiana State University School of Medicine. He was assigned by the University as its representative at the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory for the year 1950, and subsequently served two years in the United States Navy. He returned to the University of Chicago as an instructor in radiology in July 1954, and in July 1958 he became a professor and chairman of the department.—Paul C. Hodges, M.D.