Head and neck cancer: integrating anti-EGFR treatment with standard therapy.
The combination of chemotherapy and radiation is increasingly considered a standard treatment for patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Tumor control is often obtained, but toxicity is increased with combined modality treatment. The efficacy of platinum-based chemotherapy regimens has been well documented. Carboplatin offers a favorable toxicity profile compared with cisplatin. Carboplatin-based regimens have been evaluated for both locally advanced and metastatic or recurrent disease. Phase III assessment of carboplatin plus paclitaxel is warranted, alone or in combination with novel targeted therapies. Novel agents that target the epidermal growth factor receptor have shown particular promise in the management of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
Kies
Merrill S
MS
Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA. mkies@mdanderson.org
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016190:Carboplatin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000532:radiotherapy; D000068818:Cetuximab; D017024:Chemotherapy, Adjuvant; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors* / Q000276:immunology; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000532:radiotherapy; D006801:Humans; D009944:Organoplatinum Compounds / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D009944:Organoplatinum Compounds; D016190:Carboplatin; D066246:ErbB Receptors; D000068818:Cetuximab