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Chemotherapy for Colorectal Cancer

Authors:
  • Jondavid Pollock, MD, PhD
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Chemotherapy for Colorectal Cancer

Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. The drugs enter the bloodstream and travel through the body to the cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used:

  • Before surgery—to shrink the tumor and decrease the amount of tissue that needs to be removed
  • After surgery—to kill any remaining cancer cells and decrease the risk of return
  • In combination with radiation therapy to shrink tumor
  • To help relieve symptoms of metastatic cancer and extend survival time

References

  • Benson AP, Venook AB, Cederquist L, et al. Colon Cancer. Version 2.2017. In: National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines). NCCN 2017 Mar from NCCN website.
  • Colon cancer treatment option overview. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal/patient/colon-treatment-pdq#section/_135. Updated January 30, 2020. Accessed February 27, 2020.
  • Colorectal cancer. American Cancer Society website. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/cid/documents/webcontent/003096-pdf.pdf. Accessed February 27, 2020.
  • Colorectal cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/colorectal-cancer. Updated January 22, 2020. Accessed February 27, 2020.
  • Glynne-Jones R, Wyrwicz L, Tiret E, et al. Rectal cancer: ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Ann Oncol. 2017 Jul 1;28.
  • Rectal cancer treatment option overview. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal/patient/rectal-treatment-pdq#section/_135. Updated January 31, 2020. Accessed February 27, 2020.
  • Systemic Chemotherapy for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/management/systemic-chemotherapy-for-metastatic-colorectal-cancer. Updated February 14, 2020. Accessed February 27, 2020.

Contributors

  • Mohei Abouzied, MD
Last Updated:
2019-12-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.