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Recurrent colorectal cancer refers to colon or rectal cancer that comes back after successful treatment. For most patients, recurrence happens in the first five years after diagnosis, although it’s possible for cancer to recur many years after completing the initial treatment. In general, colon or rectal cancer that was diagnosed at a later stage is more likely to recur.
Treatments are more likely to be effective if colorectal cancer recurrence is found early. That’s why it’s important to attend all follow-up appointments with your oncologist. If you’ve moved since your initial treatment or would prefer using a different cancer center, you have the option of consulting with Affiliated Oncologists. Our cancer centers are located throughout the South Chicago suburbs with convenient parking and easy access. You can meet with one of our cancer doctors who will review your previous treatments and your new test results to determine the best next steps.
What Increases the Risk of Colorectal Cancer Coming Back?
If colorectal cancer was originally diagnosed at stage III or IV, there is a higher likelihood of it recurring. Other factors can increase the likelihood of recurrence, such as:
Having incomplete margins after the surgical removal of cancer cells
Genetics, such as hereditary syndromes like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis
Unhealthy lifestyle choices, including lack of exercise, poor diet, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption
Follow-up Appointments Are Important
After initial treatment, your colorectal cancer doctor will closely monitor you every three to six months for the first two to three years. Following that, appointments will be scheduled every six months until you reach the five-year mark. These follow-up visits typically include blood tests, imaging scans, and colonoscopies to check for signs of colorectal cancer having returned. While it can be mentally taxing to have tests run a few times a year, they can lead to life-saving treatments!
Types of Colorectal Cancer Recurrence
Recurrent colorectal cancer can be classified into three types based on where it reappears in the body.
Local recurrence returns to the same area where the original tumor was removed.
Regional recurrence has spread to nearby lymph nodes but has not affected other areas of the body.
Distant (metastatic) recurrence has spread beyond the original site to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, brain, or distant lymph nodes.
Common Signs of Colorectal Cancer Recurrence
Recurrent colorectal cancer may present with symptoms similar to the initial diagnosis. However, in some cases, patients may not have any symptoms at all. Regular follow-up colonoscopies can help detect a recurrence of colorectal cancer when it's easier to treat. Signs of colorectal cancer returning may include:
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Blood in stools
Rectal bleeding
Fatigue
Change in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea
Unexplained weight loss
A persistent feeling of needing to have a bowel movement even after finishing
If you experience any of these symptoms, please consult with your cancer care team.
Treatment Options for Recurrent Colorectal Cancer
There are several approaches for treating recurrent colorectal cancer. Biomarker tests are run on a sample of the new cancer growth to determine if a targeted therapy drug is available to counteract a specific genetic change identified in the cancer cells. Learn more about how biomarker testing influences colorectal cancer treatment.
Treating Local and Regional Colorectal Cancer Recurrence
For local or regional recurrences, treatment usually involves a combination of surgery, if feasible, and systemic therapies. Chemotherapy may be given before surgery to reduce tumor size or after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Targeted therapy may also be used to slow the cancer’s growth by blocking certain genetic changes in the cells.
In some cases, radiation therapy may be used either during the surgery (intraoperative radiotherapy) or afterward, particularly if the cancer has returned to the rectal area.
Treating a Distant Recurrence of Colorectal Cancer
Distant recurrent colorectal cancer, which affects other areas of the body, is more challenging to treat. The options will largely depend on whether the tumor can be surgically removed.
For patients whose cancer cannot be surgically removed, treatment generally involves a combination of medications such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies selected based on biomarker test results.
The medications you receive will be carefully chosen after considering your overall health and past cancer treatments. If the cancer does not respond to the initial medication combination, your doctor may suggest trying a different treatment approach.
Radiation therapy may also be used to alleviate symptoms caused by colorectal cancer recurrence. The use of radiation at this colorectal cancer stage depends on whether it was part of your initial treatment plan and the amount of radiation you previously received.
Clinical Trials for Recurrent Colorectal Cancer
At Affiliated Oncologists, we participate in several clinical trials in the southern Chicago suburbs, providing our community with access to promising new therapies for cancer, including colorectal cancer.
Some clinical trials may involve testing for biomarkers to determine if you are eligible for innovative targeted therapy or immunotherapy clinical trials. Your oncologist will discuss these options with you, whether you are newly diagnosed or dealing with a recurrence of colorectal cancer.
Learn more about colorectal cancer research and clinical trials in the Chicago area.
Colorectal Cancer Care in the Chicago Area
The colorectal cancer specialists at Affiliated Oncologists are dedicated to providing comprehensive care close to home. If you were diagnosed with recurrent colon or rectal cancer, our oncologists are here to discuss your diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Request an appointment at one of our cancer centers located throughout the South Chicago suburbs, including Chicago Ridge, Mokena, Hazel Crest, Palos Heights, Oak Lawn, and Orland Park.