Colon cancer biology and treatment in the era of precision oncology: A primer for Radiologists

Abstract

In the era of precision oncology, systemic therapies for colon cancer are becoming increasingly biomarker-led, with implications for patients in the neoadjuvant, adjuvant and metastatic settings. As the landscape for colon cancer treatment evolves and becomes more complex, it is important that all members of the multidisciplinary team keep abreast of developments to ensure the most effective care is delivered to patients. As core members of the colorectal multidisciplinary team, Radiologists play a central role throughout the patient journey. This review serves as an educational summary of current and emerging treatment pathways in colon cancer, standards for biomarker testing, mechanisms of action for key drugs, important treatment-related complications, relevant tumour biology that underpins patterns of disease and treatment response, and the specific implications systemic therapies have for cancer imaging and Radiologists. We also highlight the increasing role for radiology in patient stratification and the importance of imaging biomarkers. It is crucial that Radiologists understand the current landscape of colon cancer treatment and emerging strategies on the horizon in clinical trials. Only through engagement across the wider multidisciplinary team will we deliver true personalised medicine for patients with colon cancer.