Use of Monoclonal Antibodies in Colorectal Cancer: A Review

Abstract. This is a review article covering the development of monoclonal antibodies attached to a radioactive isotope which are used in scanning for metastatic adenocarcinoma of the colon. The most recent and complete study described 223 patients, of which 169 were evaluated. All patients required an operation. At operation, biopsies were taken of the resected tumor. Some false negative areas, such as dilated varicosities and inflammatory areas, were encountered. The latter can be seen as a chronic inflammatory process such as a leaking anastomosis with a diverticulum or old traumas in the pelvis. This technique allows a physician to follow patients, especially those who have had an abdominal perineal or exoneration of their pelvic organs, for possible recurrence in this area. There is also some discussion about possible future uses in the treatment of the metastatic disease.