tests to help your doctor see if colorectal cancer has metastasized or recurred include: an abdominal ultrasound to find the cause of pain or swelling in your abdomen. a colonoscopy to see if cancer has returned to your intestine. blood tests to find out if cancer has returned ( cea ) or to find the cause of symptoms such as weakness fatigue fever bruising or weight loss ( complete blood count and blood profile ). a chest x-ray to find the cause of symptoms such as persistent coughing coughing up blood chest pain or difficult breathing. a ct scan mri or pet scan to see if colorectal cancer has spread into the chest or organs in the abdomen or pelvis. a brain ct scan or mri to look into symptoms such as confusion paralysis numbness vision problems vertigo or headaches. a biopsy such as a liver biopsy or a lung biopsy to find out where the cancer cells have spread. a bone scan to find out whether cancer cells have spread to the bones. what to think about colorectal cancer often comes back even after successful treatment. if you had colorectal cancer in the past pay close attention to your body and see your doctor regularly. tell your doctor about any changes such as decreased appetite bloating or an increase in the size of your belly. your cancer may return even if you do everything you can to prevent it. if this happens focus on what you and your doctor can do to treat your symptoms to help you feel better and live longer. webmd medical reference from healthwise this information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. © 1995-2011 healthwise incorporated. healthwise healthwise for every health decision and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise incorporated.
what exams and tests help doctors to evaluate or test people for colorectal cancer metastatic or recurrent?