Colon Cancer (cont.)
What is the follow-up care for colon cancer?
Follow-up exams are important after treatment for
colon cancer. The cancer can recur near the original site or in
a distant organ such as the liver or lung. Follow-up exams include
a physical examination by the doctor, blood tests of liver enzymes,
chest x-rays, CAT scans of the abdomen and pelvis, colonoscopies,
and blood CEA levels. Abnormal liver enzymes may indicate growth
of liver metastasis. CEA levels may be elevated before surgery
and become normal shortly after the cancer is removed. Slowly
rising CEA level may indicate cancer recurrence. A CAT scan of
the abdomen and pelvis can show tumor recurrence in the liver,
pelvis, or other areas. Colonoscopy can show recurrence of polyps
or cancer in the large intestine.
In addition to checking for cancer recurrence, patients
who have had colon cancer may have an increased risk of cancer
of the prostate, breast, and ovary. Therefore, follow-up examinations
should include these areas.
What does the future hold for patients with
colorectal cancer?
Colon cancer remains a major cause of death and disease,
especially in the western world. A clear understanding of the
causes and course of the disease is emerging. This has allowed
for recommendations regarding screening for and prevention of
this disease. The removal of colon polyps helps prevent colon
cancer. Early detection of colon cancer can improve the chances
of a cure and overall survival. Treatment remains unsatisfactory
for advanced disease, but research in this area remains strong
and newer treatments continue to emerge. New and exciting preventive
measures have recently focused on the possible beneficial effects
of aspirin or other anti-inflammatory agents. In trials, the use
of these agents has markedly limited colon cancer formation in
several experimental models. Other agents being evaluated to prevent
colon cancer include calcium, selenium, and vitamins A, C, and
E. More studies are needed before these agents can be recommended
for widespread use by the public to prevent colon cancer.
- Colorectal cancer is a malignant tumor arising from
the inner wall of the large intestine.
- Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of
cancer in males and fourth in females in the U.S.
- Risk factors for colorectal cancer include heredity,
colon polyps, and long-standing ulcerative colitis.
- Most colorectal cancers develop from polyps. Removal
of colon polyps can prevent colorectal cancer.
- Colon polyps and early cancer can have no symptoms.
Therefore regular screening is important.
- Diagnosis of colorectal cancer can be made by barium
enema or by colonoscopy with biopsy confirmation of cancer tissue.
- Treatment of colorectal cancer depends on the
location, size, and extent of cancer spread, as well as the age and health of
the patient.
- Surgery is the most common treatment for colorectal
cancer.
Last Editorial Review: 8/29/2007
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