colorectal cancer happens when cells that are not normal grow in your colon or rectum. these cells grow together and form tumors. this cancer is also called colon cancer or rectal cancer. colon and rectal cancers often return months or years after treatment. this is called recurrent cancer. if the original cancer was removed before it was able to spread the chances that it will return are lower. metastatic cancer is cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. when colon or rectal cancer spreads it most often spreads to the liver. sometimes it spreads to the lungs bones or brain. 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 is colorectal cancer?