# Advancements in colon and rectal cancer treatments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/advancements-in-colon-and-rectal-cancer-treatments
> Updated: 2026-10-11T02:09:39.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

Recent medical developments have introduced new approaches for the treatment and monitoring of rectal and colon cancers, specifically regarding immunotherapy and DNA monitoring.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved atezolizumab (Tecentriq) combined with chemotherapy for the adjuvant treatment of patients aged 2 years and older with resected stage III mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) colon cancer. Based on the phase 3 ATOMIC trial, this regimen was shown to lower the risk of cancer recurrence or death by 50% compared to chemotherapy alone. For patients 12 years and older weighing at least 40 kg, the FDA also approved Tecentriq Hybreza, which is administered via subcutaneous injection.

In addition to immunotherapy advancements, research published in JCO Precision Oncology regarding the phase 2 CO. 28 trial explored using circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) to guide surgical decisions for node-negative rectal cancer. The study indicated that monitoring ctDNA levels after chemotherapy can help determine the necessity of total mesorectal excision (TME), potentially helping to preserve bowel and sexual function by avoiding extensive surgery when ctDNA is no longer detectable.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-11: Advancements in rectal and colon cancer treatment and monitoring

New clinical findings and FDA approvals offer improved management for rectal and colon cancers, utilizing ctDNA testing to guide surgery and immunotherapy to reduce recurrence risks in dMMR patients.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/advancements-in-rectal-and-colon-cancer-treatment-and-monitoring

### 2026-10-09: FDA approves Tecentriq and chemotherapy for stage III dMMR colon cancer

The FDA approved atezolizumab (Tecentriq) plus chemotherapy for stage III dMMR colon cancer, reducing the risk of recurrence or death by 50% in patients aged 2 and older.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fda-approves-tecentriq-and-chemotherapy-for-stage-iii-dmmr-colon-cancer

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Cite as: Advancements in colon and rectal cancer treatments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/advancements-in-colon-and-rectal-cancer-treatments