Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in rectal cancer

Abstract

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy is a wellestablished standard treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer and has led to a remarkable improvement in local control. However, distant recurrences still pose a notable threat and local failure, albeit increasingly rare, can lead to unfavorable clinical situations. In this short review, we discuss three promising new strategies to improve rectal cancer treatment: total neoadjuvant therapy, short course radiotherapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Rectal cancer: latest developments and innovative new treatment concepts

“…In the next article, by Arnold et al [3], novel approaches with special regard to novel treatment combinations in neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy concerning rectal cancer are discussed. Three innovative and promising new strategies to improve rectal cancer treatment, the total neoadjuvant therapy, short course radiotherapy and the implementation of immune checkpoint inhibitors seem to be the way to go in the future.…”