Stage IV Colorectal Cancer: Strategic Medical Decision Making

Presentation

Aubrey, an energetic 31-year-old woman, was diagnosed with Stage IV colorectal cancer. In the months after her diagnosis, Aubrey became overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices and potential outcomes before her. While Aubrey had a talented medical team guiding her treatment plan, she came to PHM to fully understand the array of treatment options and for their support in navigating the healthcare system. 

PHM Impact

Aubrey’s cancer had already spread to distant lymph nodes. Under the supervision of a leading GI oncologist, she underwent standard chemotherapy and radiation. Then she had to quickly decide whether to have surgery.

Personalized Cancer Care Tailored to Future Family Goals 

Her PHM Personal Care Team arranged consults with leading colorectal surgeons from across the country. PHM helped translate those expert opinions into a set of treatment options, with benefits and risks outlined. PHM also advocated for a review of options with oncofertility specialists, as Aubrey and her fiancé were planning a life with the possibility of children.

Aubrey had a complete response to her initial chemotherapy and radiation; there was no evidence of disease on exam, imaging, or bloodwork. After careful consideration, she proceeded without surgery and has taken a “watchful waiting” approach using an aggressive monitoring program to make sure that if her cancer comes back, it is detected at the earliest possible time.