Immunotherapy for colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND: Advances in molecular biology have enabled specific antigens pr esent on colorectal cells to be characterized, against which immune respons es may be generated. This, in combination with our inability to significant ly alter survival from this condition, has resurrected an interest in immun otherapy as a potential treatment option. DATA SOURCES: The information contained in this review was obtained followi ng a search of MEDLINE and BIDS (Bath Information Data System), using the k ey words immunotherapy, colorectal cancer, antibody, anti-idiotype, peptide vaccine, viral vector, and vaccine. In addition, journals related to this field were systematically searched. CONCLUSION: A number of approaches currently constitute immunotherapeutic o ptions for colorectal cancer. A number of treatment modalities are already in phase III studies, although clearly not all will fulfill their initial p romise. Surgeons need to be aware of the advances in this rapidly expanding field, and keep an open mind as to their efficacy. Am J Surg. 1999;177:344 -348. (C) 1999 by Excerpta Medica, Inc.