Objective:

To review the role of diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers in colorectal cancer (CRC) management.

Key Findings:

• Established biomarkers like KRAS/NRAS and BRAF mutations are essential for personalized CRC management.
• Emerging biomarkers include DNA methylation panels, circulating miRNAs, and microbiome signatures.
• Multi-analyte tests show promise in improving diagnostic sensitivity for CRC.
• Holistic models incorporating diverse data are likely to enhance prognostic stratification.
• Liquid biopsy can detect resistance mutations before radiologic progression.

Interpretation:

The integration of various biomarker types is crucial for advancing CRC diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment personalization.

Limitations:

• Need for large-scale validation trials.
• Challenges in assay standardization across platforms.
• Issues of access and cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion:

Biomarker-driven approaches are set to refine CRC care, aiming for improved survival and quality of life through personalized interventions.