Progress in the diagnosis of lymph node metastasis in rectal cancer: a review

Historically, the chief focus of lymph node metastasis research has been molecular and clinical studies of a few essential pathways and genes. Recent years have seen a rapid accumulation of massive omics and imaging data catalyzed by the rapid development of advanced technologies. This rapid increase in data has driven improvements in the accuracy of diagnosis of lymph node metastasis, and its analysis further demands new methods and the opportunity to provide novel insights for basic research. In fact, the combination of omics data, imaging data, clinical medicine, and diagnostic methods has led to notable advances in our basic understanding and transformation of lymph node metastases in rectal cancer. Higher levels of integration will require a concerted effort among data scientists and clinicians. Herein, we review the current state and future challenges to advance the diagnosis of lymph node metastases in rectal cancer.

Automated summary

Historically, research on lymph node metastasis in rectal cancer has focused on a few key pathways and genes. Recent advancements in technology have led to a rapid accumulation of omics and imaging data, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and providing new insights for basic research. The integration of omics data, imaging data, clinical medicine, and diagnostic methods has led to notable advancements in our understanding and treatment of lymph node metastases. However, further progress will require collaboration between data scientists and clinicians.