Diagnostic basis
A structured assessment usually starts with pathology or histology, current imaging, relevant biomarkers, previous treatments and current medication. The appropriate examinations depend on the individual disease situation.
Established oncology remains the foundation
Standard treatment is determined by current clinical guidelines, tumour characteristics, extent of disease, previous therapy, general condition and individual risks. Dendritic cell approaches should not replace indicated standard treatment without an individual medical decision.
Immune status as supplementary information
An immune status can describe selected immune-cell populations such as T cells, B cells, NK cells, NKT cells and monocytes. Results must be interpreted together with the blood count, infections, medication and the clinical situation.
Tumour dynamics and CTC measurements
If circulating tumour cells are measured, serial measurements under comparable conditions are generally more informative than a single value. CTC testing does not replace imaging or pathology and should not be used alone to make treatment decisions.
Dendritic cell therapy in colorectal cancer
Dendritic cell approaches are based on antigen presentation and activation of tumour-directed immune responses. The scientific evidence varies by tumour type, study design, patient population and endpoint. An individual benefit cannot be predicted from general study results.
Questions for the treating team
- What is the exact diagnosis and current stage?
- Which established treatment options are indicated?
- Which biomarkers or molecular findings are relevant?
- Could an immune-based approach be considered, and at what point?
- How should treatment and follow-up be coordinated?