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Treatment of Colorectal Cancer
Monitoring Following Treatment for Colorectal Cancer
It is common practice to follow patients with colorectal cancer for several years following their surgery or adjuvant therapy. However, it is not clear what constitutes the optimal follow-up strategy. In general, colonoscopy is recommended 1 year following treatment, then every 3-5 years. CEA levels may be monitored every 3-6 months for up to 5 years. Some suggest routine CT Scans of the abdomen (especially liver) and chest.
Discontinuation of surveillance colonoscopies may be considered in persons with advanced age, coexisting illnesses, or those who have < 10 years life expectancy.
Persons with high risk polyps (3 or more, high-grade cellular changes, villous features, or an adenoma >1cm in size) should undergo a follow up colonoscopy in 3 years. Persons at lower risk can have a follow up evaluation in 5-10 years.
