Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. It usually begins as a growth called a polyp, which can be noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant).
Surgery is often the primary treatment for colorectal cancer. It involves removing the tumor and nearby lymph nodes to prevent the spread of cancer cells.
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor, after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, or in advanced cases to slow the growth of the cancer.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery and chemotherapy to treat colorectal cancer.
Targeted therapy drugs target specific abnormalities within cancer cells that allow them to grow and survive. These drugs can be used alone or in combination with other treatments to treat colorectal cancer.
Immunotherapy works by boosting the body's immune system to better fight cancer cells. It can be used to treat certain types of colorectal cancer that have specific biomarkers.
Radiofrequency ablation uses high-energy radio waves to heat and destroy cancer cells. It is often used to treat small tumors in the liver that have spread from colorectal cancer.
Cryotherapy involves freezing and destroying cancer cells. It can be used to treat small tumors in the liver or other organs affected by colorectal cancer.
Embolization is a procedure that involves blocking the blood supply to tumors, causing them to shrink or die. It can be used to treat tumors in the liver that have spread from colorectal cancer.
Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with advanced colorectal cancer. It may include pain management, nutritional support, and emotional support.
Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or combinations of treatments for colorectal cancer. Participating in a clinical trial may give patients access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet widely available.