Circulating Tumor DNA and Management of Colorectal Cancer

Overview

Journal Cancers (Basel)

Publisher MDPI

Specialty Oncology

Date 2024 Jan 11

PMID 38201448

Authors

Matthew Krell

Brent Llera

Zachary J Brown

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Although the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) has decreased as a result of increased screening and awareness, it still remains a major cause of cancer-related death. Additionally, early detection of CRC recurrence by conventional means such as CT, endoscopy, and CEA has not translated into an improvement in survival. Liquid biopsies, such as the detection circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), have been investigated as a biomarker for patients with CRC in terms of prognosis and recurrence, as well as their use to guide therapy. In this manuscript, we provide an overview of ctDNA as well as its utility in providing prognostic information, using it to guide therapy, and monitoring for recurrence in patients with CRC. In addition, we discuss the influence the site of disease may have on the ability to detect ctDNA in patients with metastatic CRC.

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