After consulting with Maintenance regarding a brief; modest EGT exceedance on takeoff the flight crew of a B757-200 opted to continue to their destination.

Narrative

Starting the left engine we observed unusually high EGTs. They were; however; within limits. On takeoff; the EGT quickly stabilized very close to redline. Right at rotation; the left engine EGT suddenly started increasing again; exceeding redline and reaching 656 degrees. I called out the high temperature; and the First Officer immediately disconnected the autothrottle and throttled back slightly. The temperature returned to normal range.After cleaning up the aircraft; we ran the engine limit QRC; followed by the flight manual reference items. It was clear from the checklist that we had a choice to continue if other circumstances were not detrimental. We advised ATC that we had a possible engine problem and that we may want to return to the airport. I asked to level off at 15;000 MSL and accepted a turn to keep us close to the airport. We contacted Maintenance Control through Dispatch to get their input before making a decision to continue or return to the airport; knowing that they are able to view engine parameters and history. After some discussion we were comfortable continuing. The temperature exceedance was very brief and; according to Maintenance; within safe limits to press on. All engine readings had been normal since the initial small power reduction; and no terrain; weather or other issues precluded a safe operation. On the route; we would also be continuously within about 15 minutes of an airport at all times.