Colorectal Cancer Treatment in Istanbul
Istanbul JCI-accredited centers treat colorectal cancer (colon and rectal cancer) using the latest protocols: FOLFOX/FOLFIRI chemotherapy, bevacizumab, cetuximab, pembrolizumab (MSI-H), and SIRT Y-90 for liver metastases.
Treatment by Stage
- Stage I-II: Surgical resection (laparoscopic / robotic) — TME for rectal cancer
- Stage III: Surgery + adjuvant FOLFOX (6 months)
- Stage IV (metastatic): FOLFOX/FOLFIRI + bevacizumab/cetuximab (KRAS wild-type); MSI-H: pembrolizumab first-line
KRAS TESTING ESSENTIAL
KRAS/NRAS/BRAF status determines anti-EGFR eligibility. NGS genomic profiling recommended for all metastatic CRC patients.
Liver Metastases
40-50% of CRC patients develop liver metastases. Istanbul centers offer: surgical resection, SIRT Y-90, RFA, TACE, and hepatic artery infusion pump — often making unresectable disease resectable.
Cost Comparison
Colorectal cancer treatment in Istanbul: $8,000-35,000 (surgery to full chemotherapy course) vs $80,000-200,000+ in USA.