Appropriateness of trifluridine/tipiracil in the clinical practice of third-line therapy in metastatic colorectal cancer.

Aim: To help to remove misperception of an appropriate position of trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI) in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. Materials & methods: The RAND Corporation/UCLA Appropriateness Method was used by a panel of Italian experts to develop recommendations concerning daily practice with FTD/TPI. Forty-three clinical scenarios were discussed in two rounds and the resulting statements were rated as appropriate, uncertain or inappropriate, according to the median score. Results: Several topics were dealt with, covering the profile of eligible patients, therapeutic options beyond the second line, the practice of treatment with FTD/TPI, evaluation and efficacy and toxicity, as well as costs and compliance. Conclusion: FTD/TPI is an important therapeutic resource in refractory metastatic colorectal cancer that combines manageability and safety.