Tests for bowel cancer including rectal cancer

• Colonoscopy and biopsy of the tumour.
• Barium enema
• Liver ultrasound or CT scan to look for secondary deposits.
• CT scan or MRI to assess extent of rectal cancer
• Transanal ultrasound – to assess extent of rectal cancer
• Blood tests including tumour markers. If tumour markers are abnormal prior to surgery, it does not necessarily signify more serious disease but the test will be repeated after surgery. If it remains abnormal, further investigations will be arranged to look for evidence of spread of the cancer.
• Other tests may be arranged to assess fitness for general anaesthetic.

After successful treatment of colorectal cancer regular tests such as colonoscopy and CT scan may be performed as part of routine follow up.

The Inset diagram shows a colonoscopy being performed; the colonoscope can be seen inside the colon. The view from the tip of the endoscope is displayed on a screen in front of the operator. The main picture shows the colonoscope inside the colon.

Amended February 2009