The epidermal growth factor receptor as a novel target for cancer therapy: case studies and clinical implications.
OBJECTIVE
To update the success and obstacles using therapies targeted to the epidermal growth factor receptor including IMC-C225, ZD1839, and OSI-774.


METHODS
Research articles, textbooks, clinical protocols, case studies.


CONCLUSIONS
Ongoing studies show promise using monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer and other malignancies. Such therapies can be delivered with limited toxicity to the host, and initial studies have shown single-agent efficacy and efficacy in combination with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses are directly involved in the delivery of these novel therapies and the management of associated toxicities. They serve to coordinate treatment protocols and help to ensure patient understanding and compliance.
Riddle
Jeanne
J
University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Holcombe Blvd, Box 432, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Lee
Pamela
P
Purdom
Michelle
M
D000230:Adenocarcinoma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing*; D000368:Aged; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009367:Neoplasm Staging; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D016019:Survival Analysis
D066246:ErbB Receptors