What is a recurrence?
A recurrence is the reappearance of cancer cells in the same place as the initial cancer or in an organ more or less nearby. This is not a new Cancer but of the proliferation of malignant cells which escaped the first treatment. This can happen if they are difficult to locate or particularly resistant.
This recurrence can manifest itself just after the end of treatment or months or years later. The mechanism of recurrence is not yet well understood by scientists.
The good news is that the risk of relapse decreases over time. It is greatly reduced after 5 years after recovery from cancer. But that should not prevent her from continuing to see her doctor regularly.
What are the most recurrent cancers?
Cancers do not all have the same rate of recurrence. To determine the risk of relapse, doctors evaluate the size of the tumor, the aggressiveness of the cancer cells as well as various biological parameters specific to each type of cancer (hormone receptors, biological markers, etc.).
In general, the breast cancer, kidney, bronchi, prostate, thyroid or colorectal potentially have a higher risk of recurrence because metastases are more frequent. This is why when doctors treat this type of cancer, they pay particular attention to the nodes near the tumor which can transport any metastases to other organs or to the bones.
What are the signs of a relapse?
As with initial cancer, cancer recurrence can manifest itself in a number of ways. In general its detection takes place during a control examination without any particular sign having been noticed.
In other cases, the appearance of a lump, a ganglion that gets bigger and becomes painful, sudden weight loss or unexplained fever may be good reasons to consult. But only your doctor will be able to tell you whether or not there is cause for concern.
What are the chances of recovery in the event of a recurrence?
Just because you have relapsed from your cancer doesn’t mean you have lost all chance of a cure. It is normal to have low morale and to think that you no longer have the strength to fight … But recurrences are treated better and better and can sometimes lead to a definitive cure!
The sooner the treatment is given, the better the chances of recovery. The treatment (chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy…) will be chosen according to the initial tumor and not to its possible new location because the cancer cells remain the same. For example, in case of breast cancer from which metastases have reached the liver, the treatment given will be that prescribed in case of breast cancer.
Cancer: the right actions to limit relapses
To avoid or early identify a recurrence, it is advisable to follow the recommendations of your doctor. Do not forget to go regularly to the scheduled consultations and carry out the check-ups (blood test, ultrasound, scanner, etc.).
It is also advisable to lead a healthy life: eat balanced, avoid to smoke, do not abuse the alcohol and have regular physical activity. Numerous studies have shown that people who exercise regularly have a 50% lower risk of relapse!
