Colorectal Cancer, Metastatic or Recurrent

British Columbia Specific Information

You can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer by getting screened early. To learn about screening options like the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and who qualifies under the new BC Colon Screening program, visit the BC Cancer Agency Colon Screening.

For more details on colorectal screening, visit Colorectal Cancer Part 1 - Province of British Columbia which also includes the Colorectal Cancer: Guide for Patients. You may also be interested in the Appendix A: Factors Influencing Colorectal Cancer Risk.

Adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle changes can also lower your risk. Call 8-1-1 to talk to a registered dietitian, Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time or Email a HealthLinkBC Dietitian

Condition Basics

What is metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer?

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 other organs in the body.

Colon and rectal cancers can 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.

What causes it?

Doctors don't know the exact cause of metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer. Sometimes cancer cells are too small to be found by tests. These cells may continue to grow and show up later as metastatic cancer, even years after treatment.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms can include pain in the belly, blood in your stools, or more frequent bowel movements. If cancer spreads to the lungs, it can cause shortness of breath or cough. In the brain, it can cause headaches, seizures, dizziness, or confusion. If it spreads to the liver, it may cause jaundice or belly swelling.

How is it diagnosed?

Colon or rectal cancer that has spread or returned is diagnosed using a physical examination and several tests, including blood tests, chest X-rays, bone scans, ultrasounds, and CT, PET, or MRI scans. The diagnosis is usually confirmed with a biopsy.

How is metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer treated?

Treatment for metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer is based on many things. These include the location of the cancer, your overall health, and what matters to you. Surgery may be an option in some cases. Otherwise, the main treatments are chemotherapy and targeted therapy. A clinical trial may be a good choice.