What is the impact of biologicals in colorectal cancer?

An impressive array of therapeutic biological agents is currently being studied in the treatment of colorectal and other cancers. In advanced colorectal cancer, the majority of evidence currently available supporting the use of biological agents outside clinical trials involves the monoclonal antibodies cetuximab and panitumumab, which are epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors, and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) monoclonal antibody bevacizumab. Ongoing studies are underway to see if benefits are transferable into the adjuvant setting. The role of small molecules that inhibit the EGFR and VEGF receptors in colorectal cancer is yet to be determined. This article reviews the current clinical evidence regarding the use of biological agents in colorectal cancer and the potential impact on day-to-day management of this common clinical condition.