Journey of Resilience
Battling Colon Cancer with Lung Metastases: A Remarkable Journey to Stability
An Inspiring Story on How to Find Hope Through Surgery and Targeted Therapies
In November 2019, 54-year-old Jiang** was diagnosed with Stage IIA sigmoid colon cancer after experiencing persistent abdominal pain. Following a laparoscopic colectomy, she received four cycles of CAPEOX chemotherapy.
In January 2021, lung metastases were discovered. Genetic testing revealed KRAS and TP53 mutations. She began first-line palliative chemotherapy with bevacizumab and FOLFIRI, achieving stable disease. After switching to bevacizumab and FOLFOX, she developed an oxaliplatin allergy and returned to bevacizumab and FOLFIRI.
In June 2022, she started third-line treatment with Fruquintinib and Lonsurf (TAS-102). Over the next 23 months, imaging showed minimal growth in lung nodules, indicating stable disease. She has tolerated treatments well and maintains an active lifestyle, including square dancing.
Her case demonstrates effective management of advanced colorectal cancer through timely surgery, systemic therapies, and regular monitoring. She continues targeted therapy, with future options like immunotherapy being considered.
Jiang’s case highlights the possibility of maintaining a good quality of life despite advanced cancer.
Diagnosis
Stage IIA sigmoid colon cancer progressing to Stage IV with bilateral lung metastases
Biomarker profile: KRAS-mutated, TP53-mutated, BRAF wild-type, and MSS
Treatment
Surgery (laparoscopic colectomy), multi-line chemotherapy (CAPEOX, FOLFIRI, FOLFOX), targeted therapy (bevacizumab, Fruquintinib), and Lonsurf
Outcome
Disease remains stable; patient reports good quality of life with minimal side effects
Source: China Medical Tribune (2020)
