Biological treatments for bowel cancer

Biological treatments, or targeted therapies, are a newer way of treating bowel cancer that may be recommended in some cases.

Biological treatments, also called monoclonal antibodies, target proteins in cancer cells to help stop cancer spreading.

Biological treatments may be used in combination with chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Biological treatments include cetuximab, bevacizumab and panitumumab. 

Specific criteria have to be met for them to be available on the NHS.