Proposal for colorectal cancer management algorithm

The colorectal cancer was among the top ten cancers in Taiwan. The incidence of colorectal cancer ranked number three and the mortality ranked number three in 1997. There were 5472 people diagnosed with colorectal cancer and 2855 people died from colorectal cancer annually. Because of suboptimal diagnosis and treatment, the five-year survival rates were lower in Taiwan as compared with those in other developed countries. To ensure that all patients who have colorectal cancers receive the state-of-the-art treatment, the development of an algorithm is mandatory. In this study, we propose to establish an algorithm for the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer based on the practice guideline developed at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and experts in Taiwan who are interested in management of colorectal cancer. The algorithm was finalized after a workshop participated by the experts. The diagnosis was classified into standard, recommended, or optional according to the degree of consensus. The treatment was assessed by evidence rating level, and classified into level I, II recommendations, level III, IV options.