Treatment of advanced head and neck cancer with cetuximab.
Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody targeting the transmembrane receptor HER-1 (epidermal growth factor receptor, EGFR). In theory, inhibition of EGFR may influence tumor behavior since the receptor regulates many important tumor cell activities including tumor growth, angiogenesis, and inhibition of the apoptotic response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Available experimental data suggest that cetuximab may enhance the activity of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, reverse resistance to some anticancer drugs, and has itself anticancer activity. Early clinical data support the experimental results. This paper reviews the published findings on cetuximab in the treatment of advanced head and neck cancer and points out the future objectives of the clinical research on this drug.
Merlano
M
M
Department of Clinical Oncology, S. Croce General Hospital, Cuneo, Italy. mcmerlano@tisali.it
Garrone
O
O
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000532:radiotherapy; D000068818:Cetuximab; D002945:Cisplatin / Q000009:adverse effects; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000532:radiotherapy; D006801:Humans; D010166:Palliative Care
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D066246:ErbB Receptors; D000068818:Cetuximab; D002945:Cisplatin