Molecularly targeted therapy: toxicity and quality of life considerations in advanced colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignancy and cause of death from cancer among adults worldwide. In recent years, the use of 5-fluorouracil-based regimens in combination with molecularly targeted agents has greatly expanded treatment options for patients with metastatic disease. With a more capillary use of this new class of agents comes the recognition of diverse adverse events related to disturbance of critical biological pathways involved in physiological functions. Proactive management and prevention of adverse events, with a focus on the necessary compromise between adverse events and tumor control, are often effective and allows for uninterrupted, full-dose therapy with targeted agents. Quality of life does not appear deteriorated, rather improved due to efficacy in prolonging wellness.