A practical guide to biomarkers for the evaluation of colorectal cancer

Abstract

Evaluation of microsatellite instability (MSI) of every colorectal cancer (CRC) is important for prognostic and therapeutic purposes, while molecular testing helps identify actionable targeted therapy for patients with metastatic disease. This review will discuss the biomarkers commonly encountered in the clinical evaluation of CRC, and practical issues regarding MSI screening, reporting, interpretation, molecular test indication, and specimen requirements.