Surgical implications of colorectal cancer genetics.
The applications of genetics in colorectal cancer are not limited to identifying germ-line mutations in genetically predisposed individuals. Reports on the use of molecular genetic markers as prognostic factors and for assessing the response to therapy are common in the literature. As the primary caregiver in the majority of these cases, the surgeon needs a basic knowledge of colorectal genetics and their implications to the patient and the patient's family. This article discusses a practical approach for some of the issues likely to be encountered by the surgeon.
Rodriguez-Bigas
Miguel A
MA
Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Unit 444, PO Box 301402, Houston, TX 77230-1402, USA. mrodbig@mdanderson.org
Chang
George J
GJ
Skibber
John M
JM
D011125:Adenomatous Polyposis Coli / Q000150:complications / Q000235:genetics; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D003123:Colorectal Neoplasms, Hereditary Nonpolyposis / Q000150:complications / Q000235:genetics; D005819:Genetic Markers; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D009386:Neoplastic Syndromes, Hereditary / Q000150:complications / Q000235:genetics*; D010580:Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000235:genetics
D005819:Genetic Markers