Follow-Up Care for Colon Cancer

These checks are an important follow-up after treatment of colon cancer. The cancer can recur near the place of origin or in a distant organ such as the liver or lungs. Examinations follow-up included a physical examination by a physician, blood tests of liver enzymes,
chest x-rays, CAT scans of the abdomen and pelvis, colonoscopies, and blood levels of CEA. Liver enzymes may indicate abnormal growth of liver metastases. CEA levels may be elevated before surgery and became normal soon after the cancer is removed. CEA level increased gradually may indicate recurrence of cancer. 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 of the colon.
In addition to the reoccurrence of cancer, patients who have had colon cancer may have an increased risk of prostate cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer. Therefore, examinations of follow-up should include these areas.