Introduction to colorectal cancer

Semin Oncol Nurs. 2002 May;18(2 Suppl 2):2-12. doi: 10.1053/sonu.2002.33074.

Abstract

Objectives: To provide an overview of colorectal carcinoma (CRC), including current treatment strategies for various stages of the disease.

Data sources: Research articles and textbooks.

Conclusions: Despite screening methods for early detection of CRC, many patients present with late-stage disease and have a poor prognosis. The approval of irinotecan for CRC changed the approach to treatment, and there are numerous agents under clinical evaluation that may soon be available for the management of patients with CRC.

Implications for nursing practice: Recent advances in molecular targeting have led to the development of new treatments for CRC. Because nurses will ultimately administer these agents, it is important to understand how these agents target CRC.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / diagnosis*
  • Adenocarcinoma / epidemiology
  • Adenocarcinoma / genetics
  • Adenocarcinoma / therapy*
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Chemotherapy, Adjuvant / methods
  • Colectomy / methods
  • Colon / anatomy & histology
  • Colon / physiopathology*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / genetics
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mass Screening / methods
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplastic Processes
  • Risk Factors