Colorectal cancer (CRC) is cancer that begins in the colon or rectum of the digestive system. KRAS is a protein that sends signals to cells telling them to divide. In healthy cells, KRAS can be switched on and off. In some cancer cells, gene mutations cause changes in the KRAS protein that mean it is constantly switched on, driving cells to divide. KRAS mutation status can be used to guide treatment decisions. New treatments that target a KRAS mutation have been approved for non-small cell lung cancer and are now being tested for CRC. Other treatments are also being developed.

Identifying tumor-specific molecular aberrations via molecular profiling is vital for the use of targeted therapies. Understanding a patient’s unique tumor genetics provides predictive and prognostic information that enables a personalized care plan to be put in place, improving outcomes and minimizing ineffective treatments. 'Fast Facts: Molecular Profiling in Solid Tumors' provides a firm knowledge foundation of somatic molecular profiling methodologies, key information to help with the use of molecular profiling in daily practice and advice on communicating with patients about molecular testing and results. Table of Contents: • Molecular profiling: the basics • Rationale for testing • Sample collection • Test selection and process • Interpreting the report • Talking to patients • Challenges and opportunities

Cancer is a multifaceted disease in which genetic changes induce uncontrolled tumor growth. Genomic characterization of cancer is now leading to better diagnostic, prognostic and predictive biomarkers, and effective individualized management. 'Fast Facts: Comprehensive Genomic Profiling' provides a crash course in the science, methods and application of genomic profiling. Assuming only the most basic knowledge – or memory – of cell biology, the authors provide an overview of DNA and RNA biology and next-generation sequencing. This sets in context the descriptions of prognostic and predictive biomarkers for different cancer types and genomic-based treatments. Finally, but importantly, some of the practicalities of gaining and interpreting genomic information are described. Whether you need a primer or a refresher, this short colorful book demystifies this complex subject. Contents: • Genetic mutations and biomarkers • Understanding next-generation sequencing • Elements of comprehensive genomic profiles • Role in precision oncology • Predictive and prognostic biomarkers • Overcoming barriers to genotype-directed therapy

Our understanding of multiple myeloma (MM) is growing at a formidable pace, particularly in terms of risk factors and potential drug targets. Minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity is set to become the new benchmark in treatment, and cytogenetic analysis is now paving the way for personalized therapies. This second edition of 'Fast Facts: Multiple Myeloma and Plasma Cell Dyscrasias' includes: - the new IMWG SLiM CRAB criteria - the latest advances in diagnostic tests and imaging - cytogenetics and genetic profiling - induction therapy prior to SCT - new lenalidomide- and bortezomib-based regimens - second-generation proteasome inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies treatments. This Fast Facts handbook provides a comprehensive overview of MM and other plasma cell dyscrasias, from bench to bedside, presenting the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment in the context of daily clinical practice. Contents: • Epidemiology and etiology Predisposing conditions associated with MM • Pathophysiology of MM and MGUS • Diagnosis, staging and monitoring of multiple myeloma • Genetics and multiple myeloma • Treatment of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma • Stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma • Relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma • Bone disease and renal complications • AL amyloidosis • Rare plasma cell dyscrasias • Supportive care

Genetic susceptibility refers to how variations in a person’s genes increase or decrease his or her susceptibility to environmental factors, such as chemicals, radiation and lifestyle (diet and smoking). This volume will explore the latest findings in the area of genetic susceptibility to gastrointestinal cancers, focusing on molecular epidemiology, DNA repair, and gene-environment interactions to identify factors that affect the incidence of GI cancers. Topics will include germline susceptibility, including Mendelian patterns of inheritance and gene-environment interactions that lead to cancer etiology.

Colorectal Cancer Screening provides a complete overview of colorectal cancer screening, from epidemiology and molecular abnormalities, to the latest screening techniques such as stool DNA and FIT, Computerized Tomography (CT) Colonography, High Definition Colonoscopes and Narrow Band Imaging. As the text is devoted entirely to CRC screening, it features many facts, principles, guidelines and figures related to screening in an easy access format. This volume provides a complete guide to colorectal cancer screening which will be informative to the subspecialist as well as the primary care practitioner. It represents the only text that provides this up to date information about a subject that is continually changing. For the primary practitioner, information on the guidelines for screening as well as increasing patient participation is presentedd. For the subspecialist, information regarding the latest imaging techniques as well as flat adenomas and chromoendoscopy are covered. The section on the molecular changes in CRC will appeal to both groups. The text includes up to date information about colorectal screening that encompasses the entire spectrum of the topic and features photographs of polyps as well as diagrams of the morphology of polyps as well as photographs of CT colonography images. Algorithms are presented for all the suggested guidelines. Chapters are devoted to patient participation in screening and risk factors as well as new imaging technology. This useful volume explains the rationale behind screening for CRC. In addition, it covers the different screening options as well as the performance characteristics, when available in the literature, for each test. This volume will be used by the sub specialists who perform screening tests as well as primary care practitioners who refer patients to be screened for colorectal cancer.

Holland-Frei Cancer Medicine, Ninth Edition, offers a balanced view of the most current knowledge of cancer science and clinical oncology practice. This all-new edition is the consummate reference source for medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, internists, surgical oncologists, and others who treat cancer patients. A translational perspective throughout, integrating cancer biology with cancer management providing an in depth understanding of the disease An emphasis on multidisciplinary, research-driven patient care to improve outcomes and optimal use of all appropriate therapies Cutting-edge coverage of personalized cancer care, including molecular diagnostics and therapeutics Concise, readable, clinically relevant text with algorithms, guidelines and insight into the use of both conventional and novel drugs Includes free access to the Wiley Digital Edition providing search across the book, the full reference list with web links, illustrations and photographs, and post-publication updates

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed condition in oncology, affecting around 1.23 million individuals per year, according to recent statistics. Of these patients, about 50% will develop liver metastases and approximately 20% will present a stage IV disease at diagnosis. These statistics make colorectal liver metastases (CLM) an issue of major importance in current oncology. The area of CLM is subject to great and continuous advances, as its pathophysiologic mechanisms are better understood and more therapeutic and surgical options are developed. Consequently, all professionals involved with the diagnosis, treatment and follow up of CLM should be kept up to date with the latest advances on the field, to provide high standard medical care to their patients. This book is designed to present the state-of-the-art in CLM management and, in doing so, to review the current evidence on CLM, discussing all important topics in the field. Coverage is broad and comprehensive, encompassing introductory topics (history, definitions, epidemiology, etc.), basic science subjects (molecular biology, genetics, dissemination process, etc.) and practical clinical topics (tumor behavior, diagnosis, drug therapy, radiation therapy, surgery, ablation, multidisciplinary teams, etc.). Although comprehensive on the coverage and selection of topics, each chapter is concise and objective, dissecting topics in a practical and direct format. Evidences and recommendations are included. Chapters display a brief introduction of the common knowledge, go straight to the detailed revision of the most recent years of the literature, and end with practical closing observations. This book is a tool for professionals (general and cancer surgeons, HPB surgeons, clinical oncologists, gastroenterologists and medical residents) and interns who search for a qualified and reader friendly revision on topics concerning Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases.

The Key Facts on Cancer provides readers with essential, easy-to-read information on the life-threatening disease. Compiled in a simplified manner, this guide helps patients navigate this painful process without enduring the complicated nature of medical terminology. By making a patient-friendly manual to the causes, treatment, and ongoing research of cancer, one can easily determine what they are facing and how to live their life to the fullest.

In CT Colonography, Perry Pickhardt and David Kim present techniques for quicker evaluation and diagnosis of colon cancer through the pioneering, specialty-changing imaging technique of virtual colonoscopy (VC). This combination of sophisticated X-rays and CT scans of the abdomen offers patients an alternative to colonoscopy that is cost effective and reduces the need for unnecessary polyp removal. Abundantly illustrated in full color, this pioneering book describes CT colonography from pathogenesis, staging and treatment through indications, technique, and interpretation for the most common pathologies. Covers principles, techniques, and interpretations for the most common pathologies in a logical, practical organization. Presents tips from the authors on setting up a VC practice to provide a personal, instructive guide. Provides over 1000 full-color, high-resolution anatomic images throughout for the clearest, most accurate picture of colorectal cancer, its natural history, and its diagnosis by VC. Focuses on images, with the text serving as context for the proper use and understanding of VC.