A Stage 4A Rectal Cancer diagnosis means that the cancer has spread from your rectum, through the blood and lymph nodes to one other part of your body, such as liver, lungs, bones, etc.

What Tests Will I Need and Why?

A Rectosigmoidoscopy (a thin tube with a camera that is introduced through your anus to see the inside of your colon) is usually the first step to identify the tumor inside your colon and take samples for analysis.

Blood and Imaging tests are done to understand your general health, confirm your diagnosis and determine your cancer stage.

Tissue analysis is also typically done through a biopsy to identify certain biomarkers and mutations, which is critical to finding the best treatment option for you. In Colorectal Cancer, there are 4 common biomarkers that can be found: RAS mutations (NRAS and KRAS), BRAF mutation, Microsatellite Instability High (MSI-H) and HER2. 40-50% of Colorectal Cancers have a RAS mutation.

If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed.

Re-read this summary as needed and then tap, “Compare My Treatment Options Now“. Our unique Comparison Page will help you understand your FDA-approved treatment options including, who can help you pay for your treatment, where and how each is given and what side-effects you may experience.

Stage 4B Rectal Cancer diagnosis means that the cancer has spread from your rectum, through your blood and lymph nodes to more than one other part of your body, such as liver, lungs, bone, etc.

What Tests Will I Need and Why?

A Rectosigmoidoscopy (a thin tube with a camera that is introduced through your anus to see the inside of your colon) is usually the first step to identify the tumor inside your colon and take samples for analysis.

Blood and Imaging tests are done to understand your general health, confirm your diagnosis and determine your cancer stage.

Tissue analysis is also typically done through a biopsy to identify certain biomarkers and mutations, which is critical to finding the best treatment option for you. In Colorectal Cancer, there are 4 common biomarkers that can be found: RAS mutations (NRAS and KRAS), BRAF mutation, Microsatellite Instability High (MSI-H) and HER2. 40-50% of Colorectal Cancers have a RAS mutation.

If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed.

Re-read this summary as needed and then tap, “Compare My Treatment Options Now“. Our unique Comparison Page will help you understand your FDA-approved treatment options including, who can help you pay for your treatment, where and how each is given and what side-effects you may experience.

Stage 4C Rectal Cancer diagnosis means that the cancer has spread to the tissue that lines the wall of your abdomen called the peritoneum.  It also may have spread to other areas or organs.