A Case of Late Recurrence of Colon Cancer After Curative Treatment

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common tumor type in both sexes combined in Western countries. Although screening programs, including the implementation of fecal occult blood test and colonoscopy, might reduce mortality by removing precursor lesions and making the diagnosis at an earlier stage. Unfortunately, ~25% to 40% will develop a tumor recurrence despite a curative operation. It is well-known that most recurrences occur within five years. There are a lot of solid guidelines for recurrence surveillance. We present a case of colon adenocarcinoma that underwent surgical resection of the descending colon with close recurrence surveillance follow-ups that showed normal carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) for 12 years and then presented again with blood in stool and was found to have recurrent colon adenocarcinoma.

Keywords: colon cancer recurrence; colon cancer surveillance.

Figure 1. Patient CEA levels at the time of diagnosis and during follow-up

CEA: carcinoembryonic antigen

Figure 2. CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast showing right sub-hepatic omental mass measuring 2.63 X 2.37 cm

CT: computed tomography