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Clinical Implications of Circulating Tumor Cells in Advanced Colorectal Cancer

  • Translational Colorectal Oncology (Y Jiang, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Colorectal Cancer Reports

Abstract

It has previously been reported that circulating tumor cells (CTCs) can be a promising prognostic marker in the management of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). CTCs are tumor-derived biomarkers circulating in the peripheral blood of patients, and are recognized as a valuable non-invasive alternative for detection of micro-metastases. Molecular and quantitative characterization of CTCs may also reveal potential novel therapeutic targets to further individualize cancer management. Additionally, CTC analysis combined with individual prognostic factors may enable prediction of therapy-specific response. This article discusses the significance of CTCs with particular focus on detection and clinical outcomes in mCRC.

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  1. Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA

    Shahab Ahmed & Cathy Eng

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Ahmed, S., Eng, C. Clinical Implications of Circulating Tumor Cells in Advanced Colorectal Cancer. Curr Colorectal Cancer Rep 8, 233–242 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11888-012-0138-1

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