Administration of anti-EGFR therapy: a practical review.
OBJECTIVE
To highlight key issues in the administration of cancer therapies that target the EGFR.


METHODS
Published clinical trials of anti-EGFR therapy, secondary literature on the administration of anticancer drugs, and illustrative case study reports.


CONCLUSIONS
Anti-EGFR agents represent a new class of therapy. It is important for nurses to acquire familiarity with the specific issues related to the administration of anti-EGFR agents. Preparedness and active patient monitoring can minimize the impact of toxicities (including interstitial lung disease, infusion reactions, and metabolic alterations) and help ensure the delivery of full treatment courses.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses familiar with the administration issues and the severe adverse events associated with anti-EGFR therapy will be better equipped to manage them effectively.
Khoukaz
Taline
T
University of Southern California/Norris Cancer Center and Hospital, 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA. khoukas_t@ccnt.hsc.edu
D000465:Algorithms; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D002166:Camptothecin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000031:analogs & derivatives; D000068818:Cetuximab; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003663:Decision Trees; D016903:Drug Monitoring / Q000451:nursing; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D000077146:Irinotecan; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D000077146:Irinotecan; D066246:ErbB Receptors; D000068818:Cetuximab; D002166:Camptothecin