Enhancing oxaliplatin-based regimens in colorectal cancer by inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor pathway.

In the past several years, significant advances in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) have been made. With the introduction of irinotecan and oxaliplatin combined with infusional 5-fluororuracil, survival times for patients with metastatic CRC have nearly doubled. With the incorporation of biologic agents that target the vascular endothelial growth factor and epidermal growth factor (EGF) pathways, additional improvements in response, progression-free survival, and overall survival have been seen in patients with advanced, metastatic disease. This article reviews the impact of EGF receptor inhibitors on improving survival in CRC when combined with oxaliplatin-containing regimens.