The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends ongoing surveillance of a patient diagnosed with colon cancer.
Elements of continuing surveillance:
(1) history and physical
(2) CT scan of chest, abdomen and pelvis
(3) serum CEA
(4) colonoscopy
Parameters:
(1) tumor stage
(2) occurrence as an advanced adenoma
(3) colonoscopy prior to colon resection
Surveillance
Stage
Initial
Later
history and physical
1
NA
2 to 4
every 3-6 months for 2 years
every 6 months for years 3 to 7
CT scan
2 or 3
every 6-12 months for 5 years
4
every 6-12 months for years 3 to 7
Serum CEA
Colonoscopy timings:
(1) initial: at 1 year; exception if no colonoscopy prior to resection then do at 3-6 months
(2) second: at 3 years; exception if advanced adenoma then do at 1 year
(3) subsequent: every 5 years
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Specialty: Hematology Oncology, Gastroenterology
