Advances in understanding of colorectal liver metastasis and implications for the clinic

Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2015 Feb;9(2):245-59. doi: 10.1586/17474124.2014.940897. Epub 2014 Jul 18.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in both the USA and Europe. Over the course of diagnosis, treatment and surveillance, up to 50% of these patients will develop metastases to their liver. In the past 20 years alone, there have been multiple advances in the management of these colorectal metastases to the liver. These advances have been made in characterization of these tumors, diagnosis and in treatment, both locally and systemically. Because of this progress, there are subsets of patients with this stage IV disease who are cured of their disease. While significant progress has been made, there still exist limitations in the management of metastatic colorectal cancer to the liver. This review outlines current strategies and highlights recent advances in the management of colorectal liver metastases.

Keywords: ablation; colorectal liver metastases; disappearing liver metastases; outcomes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Catheter Ablation
  • Chemoembolization, Therapeutic
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / mortality
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Disease Management*
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Liver Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Liver Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Radiosurgery
  • Survival Rate