Advances in the management of colorectal cancer: a systematic review
Information for nursing staff, 2025, 57(4), 64-70.
K. Angelov1, N. Nachev2, E. Yordanov2, S. Stoyanova2, A. Rangelov2, N. Khayat3, A. Sharkov4, A. Zlatarov5, T. Dyulgerov6
1Department of Surgery, Medical University – Sofia, Alexandrovska University Hospital – Sofia
2Laboratory of Social Pharmacy, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Sofia University Sveti Kliment Ohridski – Sofia
3Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Pirogov University Hospital – Sofia
4Department of Communication and Audiovisual Production, Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication, Sofia University Sveti Kliment Ohridski – Sofia
5Department of General and Operative Surgery, Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov MU – Varna
6Psychiatry Clinic, Alexandrovska University Hospital, Medical University – Sofia
Abstract: Colorectal carcinoma is defined as a malignant neoplasm originating from the tissues of the large intestine (colon) or rectum, while anal carcinoma is a separate nosological entity defined as the growth of cells that begin in the anal canal. Although structurally related, these segments give rise to different types of tumors that require different treatment strategies, which highlights the clinical importance of this anatomical differentiation. Aim: To analyze the novelties in the management of the diagnostic and therapeutic process in colon cancer. We prepared a systematic review of scientific publications through documentary analysis and content analysis of 30 scientific publications, selected according to predefined keywords, predominantly from the last decade. Malignant tumors of the colon, rectum, and anal canal, although anatomically adjacent, represent different disease entities with unique epidemiological, etiological, molecular, and clinical characteristics. Subsite-specific approaches to diagnosis, staging, and treatment are crucial. Future research directions include personalizing adjuvant therapy by monitoring minimal residual disease using circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and continuing to refine organ preservation strategies in rectal cancer..
Key words: colon cancer, rectal cancer, anal cancer, staging, surgical treatment
Address for correspondence: Prof. Dr. Kostadin Angelov, MD, e-mail: dr.k.angelov@gmail.com