Description
Epic is a treatment approach being studied in patients with colorectal cancer that has spread to the lining of the abdomen (peritoneal metastasis). It involves giving chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity (intraperitoneal chemotherapy) soon after surgery to remove as much visible tumor as possible (cytoreductive surgery). This specific approach is called Early Post-operative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (EPIC). It is then followed by Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC), where the chemotherapy is heated to a higher temperature. The goal of this treatment is to kill any remaining cancer cells inside the abdomen and improve outcomes after surgery. This treatment is typically considered for patients whose cancer is limited to the abdomen and has been surgically removed as much as possible.
Mechanism of Action
Epic involves two main steps: Early Post-operative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (EPIC) and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC). EPIC uses chemotherapy drugs given directly into the abdominal cavity shortly after surgery. HIPEC involves administering chemotherapy drugs that are heated to a specific temperature and circulated within the abdominal cavity. The chemotherapy drugs used in this approach, such as floxuridine, leucovorin, and mitomycin, work by interfering with the growth and division of cancer cells. The heat used in HIPEC may enhance the effectiveness of the chemotherapy drugs and potentially kill cancer cells directly.
Side Effects
Not all side effects are listed. Side effects vary by individual. Always consult your oncologist.