What Now That I Have Colon Cancer?
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What Now That I Have Colon Cancer?
Not all cancers are the same. Not even all colon cancers are the same. There is also difference between cancers that arise in the colon versus those that arise in the last part of the colon which is called the rectum. Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.
The prognosis and treatment options depend on the following:
- The stage of the cancer (whether the cancer is in the inner lining of the colon only or has spread through the colon wall, or has spread to lymph nodes or other places in the body).
- Whether the cancer has blocked or made a hole (perforation) in the colon.
- Whether there are any cancer cells left after surgery.
- Whether the cancer cells are responsive to chemotherapy agents available
- Whether the cancer has recurred.
- The patient’s general health.
- The prognosis also depends on the blood levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) before treatment begins. CEA is a substance in the blood that may be increased when cancer is present.
By far the most important factor in determining the outcome is the spread of the cancer which is called metastasis. If the cancer has spread to the liver or the lungs then it is called advanced stage 4 cancer and the prognosis is usually not good.
Khawaja Azimuddin M.D. & Tal Raphaeli M.D. & Jean Knapps M.D.
1125 Cypress Station Dr, Suite G, Houston TX 77090
Tel: 281-583 1300 Fax: 281-583 1303
Houston Colon & Rectal surgery PA
The Hemorrhoid Center