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Contents
  • Surgery: The Primary Treatment
  • Chemotherapy: Systemic Treatment
  • Radiation Therapy: Targeted Energy
  • Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

Treating Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Approach

Treating Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Approach

Fighting Back

Colorectal cancer treatment has advanced significantly in recent years, offering patients more options and better outcomes. The approach to treatment depends on the cancer's stage and location, as well as the patient's overall health.
Contents
  • Surgery: The Primary Treatment
  • Chemotherapy: Systemic Treatment
  • Radiation Therapy: Targeted Energy
  • Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

Surgery: The Primary Treatment

Surgery is the main treatment for most colorectal cancers. For early-stage cancers, minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic surgery or even endoscopic removal may be possible. More advanced cancers typically require removing the affected part of the colon or rectum along with nearby lymph nodes. In some cases, temporary or permanent colostomies may be necessary. The goal is to remove all of the cancer while preserving as much normal function as possible.

Chemotherapy: Systemic Treatment

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It may be given before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors, after surgery (adjuvant) to kill any remaining cancer cells, or as the main treatment for advanced cancers. Common drugs include 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan. Side effects can be significant but are often manageable with supportive care.
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon or rectum. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and a multidisciplinary approach for personalized care.

Radiation Therapy: Targeted Energy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. It's more commonly used for rectal cancers than colon cancers. Radiation may be given before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells, or to relieve symptoms in advanced cases. Modern techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) can target tumors more precisely, reducing side effects to surrounding healthy tissue.

Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

Newer treatments target specific features of cancer cells or harness the immune system to fight cancer. Targeted therapies like bevacizumab block blood vessel growth to tumors, while cetuximab and panitumumab target a protein called EGFR. Immunotherapy drugs like pembrolizumab and nivolumab help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. These treatments are typically used for advanced colorectal cancers and may be combined with chemotherapy.

FAQs

How long does treatment usually last?

It varies widely, from weeks for surgery to months for chemotherapy.

Can colorectal cancer be cured?

Yes, especially when caught early.

Are clinical trials an option?

Many patients participate in trials testing new treatments.

How is treatment tolerance?

Side effects vary, but many are manageable with proper care.

What about alternative therapies?

Some may help with symptoms, but shouldn't replace standard care.

A Team Effort

Effective colorectal cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary team of specialists working together to provide comprehensive, personalized care.
Exploring colorectal cancer treatment options? Let Doctronic connect you with oncology specialists to discuss the best approach for your situation.
Additional References
  1. National Cancer Institute. Colorectal Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version. cancer.gov
  2. American Society of Clinical Oncology. Colorectal Cancer: Types of Treatment. cancer.net
  3. National Comprehensive Cancer Network. NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Colon Cancer. nccn.org
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.