Biomarkers that Predict Response to Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer

Abstract

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation has been a standard of care for locally advanced rectal cancers. Recent reports suggest that a pathologic complete response to neoadjuvant treatment correlates to improved overall survival. In addition, some series suggest that patients who have a complete response to neoadjuvant therapy may safely defer surgery in favor of a "watch and wait" approach, therefore avoiding the potential complications and adverse bowel function associated with surgery. It is therefore important to understand the clinical and biologic factors which affect the response of rectal cancers to chemoradiation. This review highlights the current literature examining the biomarkers of tumor response to chemoradiation.

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