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Treating Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Approach
Published: Jun 19, 2024
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.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
It varies widely, from weeks for surgery to months for chemotherapy.
Yes, especially when caught early.
Many patients participate in trials testing new treatments.
Side effects vary, but many are manageable with proper care.
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.
References
- National Cancer Institute. Colorectal Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version. cancer.gov
- American Society of Clinical Oncology. Colorectal Cancer: Types of Treatment. cancer.net
- 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. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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