Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Rectal Cancer After Neoadjuvant Treatment: FOLFOX, 5-FU, or Observation

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

A multimodality approach incorporating concurrent chemotherapy with radiotherapy prior to surgery has become the standardized approach in the management of localized rectal cancer. However, it is unknown whether any further therapy after surgery may be beneficial in improving patient outcomes. Previous completed randomized clinical trials have not added any clarity in this regard, whether adjuvant chemotherapy or intensified chemotherapy regimens improve patient outcomes in those who have previously received neoadjuvant therapy. Despite the lack of evidence, based off the survival data in stage III colon cancer, adjuvant chemotherapy has become a standardized practice in the management of resected rectal cancer. Furthermore, recommendations include the consideration of added oxaliplatin to adjuvant therapy in this disease. While it is unclear whether all patients should receive adjuvant chemotherapy, a subset of patients, including those who achieve a pathologic response may benefit from further treatment. Ongoing studies utilizing an individualized, stepwise multimodality approach may define the role of adjuvant therapy and the appropriate regimen in patients with resected rectal cancer.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)260-265
Number of pages6
JournalCurrent Colorectal Cancer Reports
Volume12
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1 2016

Keywords

  • Adjuvant chemotherapy
  • Neoadjuvant chemoradiation
  • Rectal cancer
  • Survival

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Hepatology
  • Oncology
  • Gastroenterology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Rectal Cancer After Neoadjuvant Treatment: FOLFOX, 5-FU, or Observation'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this