[China Tech] MRI Helps Doctors Prescribe Precise Medicine for Colorectal Cancer

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Patients with terminal colorectal cancer can now receive imaging reports that provide detailed cancer classifications, which will help guide precise medical treatment. This advancement is the result of innovative technology developed by Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center.

Precise medication is essential for improving treatment outcomes. In colorectal cancer treatment, the invasion of the mesorectal fascia – a structure that acts as a protective barrier for the rectum – is a critical factor in determining treatment plans.

Among patients with terminal colorectal cancer, 30 to 60 percent show signs of mesorectal fascia invasion on magnetic resonance imaging, and these patients typically receive the same aggressive treatment regimen.

"However, we discovered that patients undergoing the same treatment can experience vastly different outcomes. Some may have a favorable prognosis, while others may develop metastasis within a short period and even succumb quickly," said Dr Xia Fan, vice director of the hospital's radiotherapy department.

"Why do patients with the same positive imaging results exhibit such significant differences in treatment efficacy and survival rates? We researched to investigate how the rectal wall is compromised and what factors contribute to this."

After studying 959 patients with terminal colorectal cancer across three medical centers, experts classified four types of invasion of the mesorectal fascia (MRF).

Further research revealed significant differences in prognosis among patients in the four types.

Experts also explained why these prognoses vary. These important discoveries provide valuable evidence for clinical practice.

"This research is very meaningful in offering precise medication for patients. By correctly identifying patients who are MRF positive, we can find those at high risk and prevent unnecessary side effects for low-risk patients, leading to more personalized and accurate treatment," Xia added.

The research has received high recognition from leading medical specialists worldwide and was published in the prestigious journal Radiology.