A monoclonal antibody, also called antiangiogenesis agent used in metastatic colo- rectal carcinoma is
## **Core Concept**
The question tests knowledge of targeted therapy in cancer treatment, specifically monoclonal antibodies used in metastatic colorectal carcinoma. **Angiogenesis** is the process by which new blood vessels form from pre-existing vessels, a critical step in tumor growth and metastasis. **Monoclonal antibodies** are a class of therapeutic agents that can specifically target proteins involved in tumor growth and angiogenesis.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **Bevacizumab**, is a monoclonal antibody that targets **vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A)**, a protein involved in angiogenesis. By inhibiting VEGF-A, bevacizumab prevents the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow and metastasize. This mechanism makes bevacizumab an effective antiangiogenic agent in the treatment of metastatic colorectal carcinoma, among other cancers.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of colorectal cancer but it targets the **epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)**, not VEGF. Therefore, it is not primarily classified as an antiangiogenesis agent.
- **Option B:** Trastuzumab targets **HER2/neu receptors** and is used in the treatment of breast cancer, not colorectal cancer, and is not an antiangiogenic agent.
- **Option D:** Rituximab targets **CD20** and is used in the treatment of certain lymphomas, not colorectal cancer, and works through **immune-mediated cytotoxicity**, not antiangiogenesis.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that bevacizumab is one of the first antiangiogenic therapies approved for cancer treatment, specifically for metastatic colorectal cancer. Its use is associated with increased **response rates** and **progression-free survival** when added to chemotherapy. However, it can also increase the risk of **hypertension** and **proteinuria**.
## **Correct Answer:** . Bevacizumab