Circulating tumor cells in colorectal cancer - a review of detection methods and clinical relevance.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer; it is one of the leading malignancies contributing to cancer mortality. Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer in men and the second in women worldwide. Diagnosis of CRC depends on several clinical features such as age, primary site, tumor-node-metastasis stage, genetic parameters and the presence or absence of metastasis.

An improved method for paraffin-embedded cytological preparations: application to the detection of circulating tumour cells.

Introduction: Conventional tissue biopsy is a key examination in cancer diagnosis. However, liquid biopsy is an alternative and less invasive solution that allows the detection of circulating tumour cells (CTCs). CTCs have emerged as a potential screening, diagnostic, and prognostic tool in cancer management.