Neoadjuvant therapy in rectal cancer

Abstract

Colon and rectal cancers rank highest among adult tumors. Sixty percent of rectal tumors are stage 1, 2, and 3. Unfortunately, 40 % are diagnosed in clinical stage IV. The approach to the treatment of rectal cancer is multimodal. It involves a surgeon, endoscopist, radiation and clinical oncologist, and radiologist. It includes both systemic and local treatment, including radiotherapy. A neoadjuvant approach is used in stage T3 disease, especially in the presence of nodal involvement. The goals of neoadjuvant treatment are twofold: Downstaging and reducing the risk of recurrence.