Optimization of Anti-EGFR Treatment of Advanced Colorectal Cancer

Anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) monoclonal antibodies are currently used for treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. Although they have improved clinical outcome for these metastatic patients, only a small percentage benefit from the treatment. This limited efficacy is related to the lack of validated biomarkers that could aid better selection of the patients most likely to benefit. Although several biomarkers have been identified in recent years, we still do not know how to administer these drugs in a “personalized, targeted manner”. The purpose of this review is to summarize the state of the art of biomarker discovery and the steps to follow to optimize treatment.