Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: The Treatment Continuum

Objectives

To provide a comprehensive review of the current and most up-to-date clinical trial evidence supporting use of the treatment continuum approach for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

Data Sources

Original scientific papers and abstracts, practice guidelines, and review articles.

Conclusion

The treatment continuum is the most promising approach currently available for the management of patients with mCRC. Success of the approach depends on up-front planning, individualization of therapy, appropriate sequencing of first-line and subsequent regimens, and the strategic use of all available agents, weighing both their risks and benefits.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Because sound clinical judgment must continue to guide clinician treatment decisions until more definitive data regarding the optimal combination and sequencing of current agents become available, oncology nurses are in a unique position to assist with the implementation of this treatment approach. It is therefore imperative that they become familiar with the clinical data to better assist patients with decisions regarding therapeutic options and potential risks and benefits, along with the effect on the individual’s quality of life.