Bevacizumab in combination with fluoropyrimidine-irinotecan- or
fluoropyrimidine-oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy for first-line and
maintenance treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer
Despite a slight decrease in mortality rates, recent advances in
screening methods, diagnosis and overall improved therapeutic options,
colorectal cancer (CRC) remains among the leading causes of
cancer-related death worldwide. The major cause is the mortality related
to metastatic status of CRC. Increasing clinical evidence derived from
randomized trials strongly suggests that the efficacy of standard
cytotoxic agents, including various combinations of 5-fluoouracil
(5-FU)/leucovorin (LV), capecitabine, irinotecan and oxaliplatin, may be
significantly augmented with concomitant administration of molecular
agents targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling
pathways, such as bevacizumab. Herein, we critically discuss the current
data on the efficacy and safety profile of bevacizumab in combination
with fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy for first-line and maintenance
treatment of metastatic CRC and briefly comment on existing
controversies and future perspectives
