Palliative therapy of rectal cancer. Overview: epidemiology, indications, goals, extent, and nature of work-up.

Each year in the United States, it is estimated that there will be 42,000 new cases of rectal cancer and 8,500 deaths.(1,2) Some patients present with an incurable rectal cancer but more often death follows development of recurrent rectal cancer after failed curative-intent therapy. Knowledge of the natural history of rectal cancer and limitations of treatment options coupled with sound clinical judgment and compassion are essential prerequisites for the clinician providing palliative care.