Exploring the correlation of KRAS exon 4 mutation in colorectal cancer

Abstract

Background and objectives. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, representing more than 9% of all cancers. The development of CRC is a complex process involving genetic mutations and epigenetic changes. One of the most well-known mutations is in the KRAS gene. This study aimed to determine the relationship between KRAS exon 4 mutation and clinicopathological aspects of rectal cancer. Materials and methods. This was a preliminary study with a cross-sectional design conducted between January and December 2023. The research sample was drawn from the entire CRC patient population meeting the inclusion criteria, selected by consecutive sampling. Results. A total of 23 patients were included. Most were aged 50–69 years (47.8%), and 52.2% were women. Approximately 30.4% had KRAS exon 4 mutations. The cancer stage distribution was fairly balanced between stage I (30.4%), stage II (21.7%), stage III (26.1%), and stage IV (21.7%). Most cancers were moderately differentiated (65.2%). Blood group A was most common (52.2%). KRAS exon 4 mutation showed no significant association with sex (p = 0.554), age (p = 0.475), cancer stage (p = 0.412), cancer grading (p = 0.619), or blood group (p = 0.391). Conclusion. No significant associations were found between KRAS exon 4 mutations and key clinicopathological factors such as sex, age, cancer stage, grading, or blood group. These preliminary findings provide useful insights, but larger multicenter studies are needed to clarify the clinical implications of KRAS exon 4 mutations in CRC.

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