American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Question: 1 / 2705

For how many years should patients at high risk for recurrence of colorectal cancer receive serial carcinoembryonic antigen measurements after resection?

3 years

5 years

Patients at high risk for recurrence of colorectal cancer should receive serial carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) measurements for a period of 5 years after resection. This recommendation is grounded in clinical evidence that demonstrates the utility of CEA as a tumor marker that can help in the early detection of recurrence. Monitoring CEA levels during this period allows for timely intervention if a recurrence is identified, as early treatment can significantly improve outcomes.

The guideline suggests that starting follow-up CEA measurements 3 to 4 months after surgery can help detect relapse as it may elevate before any clinical symptoms arise. Continuing these measurements during the first 5 years post-resection is crucial, as this timeframe encompasses the majority of recurrences. While some patients may experience recurrence beyond 5 years, the risk diminishes significantly after this period; hence, routine CEA measurement is typically not recommended indefinitely.

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7 years

Indefinitely

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