Abstract

Objective: To provide a comprehensive overview of current therapeutic strategies for colorectal cancer (CRC).
Methodology: This narrative review synthesizes evidence from recent clinical guidelines, key randomized trials, and translational research related to CRC surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and next-generation interventions. The integrated findings summarize established practices and evaluate ongoing advancements that may shape future CRC management.
Results: Targeted therapies, including anti-EGFR and anti-VEGF monoclonal antibodies, have significantly improved outcomes in selected metastatic CRC populations. Immunotherapies, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, demonstrate substantial benefit in tumors with high mutational burden, such as dMMR/MSI-H CRC. Emerging therapeutic avenues include KRAS G12C and HER2 inhibitors, biomarker-driven precision medicine, microbiome-based modulation, and advanced immunotherapeutic strategies. Persistent challenges such as drug resistance, tumor heterogeneity, and variable treatment response remain major obstacles to optimal care.
Conclusion: Multidisciplinary and personalized treatment approaches are essential to improving survival and quality of life in patients with CRC. Continued translational research and deeper integration of molecular profiling, novel targeted drugs, and microbiome-related strategies are expected to shape the future of precision oncology for CRC.

Key words: Cancer, colorectal cancer, HER2, KRAS, treatment, strategies.