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Review
. 2006 Jul 17;95(2):131-8.
doi: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6603233.

Management of advanced colorectal cancer: state of the art

M Saunders  1 , T Iveson
Affiliations
Review

Management of advanced colorectal cancer: state of the art

M Saunders et al. Br J Cancer. .

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) caused over 500 000 deaths worldwide in 2002. Recent advances in the treatment of advanced disease include the incorporation of two new cytotoxic agents, irinotecan and oxaliplatin, into first-line regimens. The concept of planned sequential therapy involving three active agents during the course of a patient's treatment is evolving. Coupled with the integrated use of targeted monoclonal antibodies, we can now expect overall survival rates for advanced disease to exceed 20 months. This review considers current treatments and suggests where future progress may occur.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Randomisation for the MRC CR08 FOCUS trial.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Expansion of the treatment choices for patients with advanced CRC (Rougier et al, 1998; de Gramont et al, 2000; Douillard et al, 2000; Maughan et al, 2002; Cunningham et al, 2004; Hurwitz et al, 2004; Tournigand et al, 2004) Iri=irinotecan; Ox=oxaliplatin; Cap=capecitabine; bev=bevacizumab; cet=cetuximab; BSC=best supportive care.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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