Diagnosis and staging

For colon and rectal cancer:

• CT scan of the chest, abdomen and pelvis
• MRI liver
• PET-CT

For rectal cancer:

• endorectal ultrasound

Genetic testing

Up to 5% of colorectal cancers are specifically inherited (familial adenomatous polyposis and lynch syndrome) and up to 25% may have some form of inherited component.

Find out more about colorectal cancer genetic testing.

Treatment planning

The multidisciplinary team should discuss all newly diagnosed patients within 2 weeks of diagnosis and staging.

Some cases of colorectal cancer present as emergencies and require appropriate acute care followed by management from a multidisciplinary team.

Research and clinical trials

Consider enrolment where available and appropriate. Search for a trial.

Communication

The lead clinician’s (1) responsibilities include:

• discussing a timeframe for diagnosis and treatment options with the patient and/or carer
• explaining the role of the multidisciplinary team in treatment planning and ongoing care
• encouraging discussion about the diagnosis, prognosis, advance care planning and palliative care while clarifying the patient’s wishes, needs, beliefs and expectations, and their ability to comprehend the communication
• providing appropriate information and referral to support services as required
• communicating with the patient’s GP about the diagnosis, treatment plan and recommendations from multidisciplinary meetings (MDMs).

Checklist

Timeframe

Investigations should be completed within 2 weeks.