Colon Cancer Support Group

Colorectal cancer, also called colon cancer or bowel cancer, includes cancerous growths in the colon, rectum and appendix. Many colorectal cancers are thought to arise from mushroom-like growths that are usually benign, but some may develop into cancer over time. The majority of the time, the diagnosis of localized colon cancer is through colonoscopy.

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capecod 04/08/2010

I just got my results from Monday's tests --- lung xrays were clear (YAY) and CEA markers were normal. They were 1.6 I asked what they were in April 09, just prior to surgery, and they were 1.4. Since my tumor was 3cm, I remarked to my onc that obviously the CEA was not a reliable testing source for me. He replied that they might show other types of tumor growth/spread so it was worth repeating every 3 mos.

Not that I care about taking a blood test every three months, but does anyone else find this kinda strange?

Anyway, I am very, very grateful the spots on the lungs are gone. Now I just have to clear my one year post surgical colonoscopy next month. It's good to have goals:-)

deleted_user 04/08/2010

But the CEA prior to surgery was after radiation, correct? That would mean the cancer was killed off pretty much prior to surgery so the CEA would indicate no active tumor cells.

capecod 04/08/2010

I wish I could say that was the case. That would make sense. The doctor referenced blood work results reported April 9th --- I didn't start radiation until April 29th.

Strange, isn't it? And I had the fairly garden variety adenocarcinoma. (I should learn how to spell this stuff)

deleted_user 04/08/2010

Well the GOOD news is.,... trials have shown / proven that those whose CEA never got as high as 5 have a much smaller chance of recurrence!

capecod 04/09/2010

Wow. I didn't know that. Thanks for the information.

Gr8ful 04/09/2010

CC couple of months before I was diagnosed with cancer I had bloods done that showed no cancer. I too do not show up well on the bloods so I do not worry about my bloods, I think is more to keep the docs happy and some poor bugger in a job lol.

Stoked to hear that your recovery is still going strongly especially that the spots on your lungs are gone, that must be a big relief.

G8

G8

CoogeeMum 04/09/2010

Great news CC. And so glad the spots have gone too. That colonoscopy was nerve wracking the week before, so try to meditate or do some exercise to keep mind off thinking about it yeah. It's going to be great, because your feeellinnnngg goooooooooood :}

CoogeeMum 04/09/2010

Oh, I sang that last bit. You can't spell, I can't sing lol

deleted_user 04/09/2010

sucha good news! Celebrating with you!

Gassyg 04/09/2010

My CEA never showed any evidence either so I don't worry about blood work. I'm glad to take the test just because it might be able to detect something the next time (if there is a next time) Selfishly, I am comforted to hear that low numbers mean low recurrence. Thanks for that tid bit!

markarina 04/09/2010

I guess that makes me the exception that proves the rule, as when I was told I had a recurrance my CEA was normal can't remember the exact figure but sub 5.

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