In addition, you should continue to see your gynecologist on a regular basis and should be followed regularly by your internist or medical oncologist. Mammograms You should have a mammogram once a year of both breasts if you've had a lumpectomy, or of the unaffected breast if you've had a mastectomy. In some cases, a physician may recommend a mammogram more than once a year on a breast that has undergone breast conserving treatment. In any case, breast self-examination, clinical breast exams, and mammography are essential parts of ongoing care. Certain blood tests are helpful in determining your general state of health.
Blood chemistries are useful to determine the possibility of recurrence in the bones or liver.
Other blood tests, referred to as tumor marker tests, may be performed to determine the possibility of recurrence. Some physicians will recommend an annual chest X-ray to make sure your cancer has not spread to the lungs. Other tests, such as bone scans, CT scans, sonograms, and MRIs are usually performed after breast cancer treatment only when there is reason to suspect a recurrence. Early detection is extremely effective against endometrial and colorectal cancer. Please discuss cancer surveillance with your physician.