Metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer

Metastatic colorectal cancer occurs when cancer cells travel from the large intestine, through either the bloodstream or the lymph system, to other parts of the body and continue to grow in their new location. Recurrent colorectal cancer is cancer that has come back after treatment.

Metastatic colorectal cancer can be present at the initial diagnosis or may occur months to years after treatment for colorectal cancer. Metastasis can affect areas near the colon, such as lymph nodes, or organs in other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs.

Treatment of metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer depends on how far the cancer has spread, the symptoms, and the area of the body that is involved.

Current as of: October 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

 
 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.

Health Information Library