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The role of chemotherapy in microsatellite unstable (MSI-H) colorectal cancer

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Abstract

Introduction

High-frequency microsatellite instability (MSI-H) is an alternate pathway of colorectal carcinogenesis, which accounts for 15% of all sporadic colorectal cancers. These tumours arise from mutations in the DNA mismatch repair system and thus have different responses to chemotherapeutic agents compared to microsatellite stable (MSS) cancers.

Objective

This review aims to summarise the available literature on the responses to chemotherapy in MSI-H colorectal cancer (CRC).

Results and discussion

5 Fluorouracil (5FU) is commonly used as a chemotherapeutic agent in colon cancer and in vitro evidence shows reduced response to 5FU in MSI-H CRC. The clinical evidence is conflicting but favours a reduced response to 5FU in MSI-H CRC. Several newer agents such as COX-2 inhibitors and irinotecan are also reviewed.

Conclusion

Available evidence suggests that MSI-H CRC have different behaviour patterns and response to chemotherapy compared with MSS CRC.

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  1. Department of Cancer Genetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital and University of Sydney, St. Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia

    Janindra Warusavitarne & Margaret Schnitzler

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  1. Janindra Warusavitarne
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Correspondence to Janindra Warusavitarne.

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Warusavitarne, J., Schnitzler, M. The role of chemotherapy in microsatellite unstable (MSI-H) colorectal cancer. Int J Colorectal Dis 22, 739–748 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00384-006-0228-0

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