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Cetuximab: a critical appraisal of a novel development in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 March 2008

Joanna Gemmill
Joanna Gemmill*
Affiliation:
Advanced Practitioner, Head and Neck Cancer, Department of Oncology, Box 193, Cambridge University Hospital Foundation Trust, Addenbrookes Hospital, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 2QQ, UK
*
Correspondence to: Joanna Gemmill, Advanced Practitioner, Head and Neck Cancer, Department of Oncology, Box 193, Cambridge University Hospital Foundation Trust, Addenbrookes Hospital, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 2QQ, UK. E-mail: [email protected]
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Abstract

Recently published evidence has shown an improvement in locoregional control and a survival advantage in the treatment of squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (SCCHN) using cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody that inhibits the tumour-promoting mechanism of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). In a large randomised trial, cetuximab was delivered concurrently with radiotherapy and compared to radiotherapy alone in locally advanced SCCHN. The trial showed that the addition of cetuximab offers improved locoregional control and survival without enhancing acute toxicity compared to radiotherapy alone. These exciting results have the potential to change standard head and neck cancer practice, impacting on head and neck cancer services provided by oncology departments and multidisciplinary working.

This article aims to define the mechanism of action of cetuximab, critically appraise the evidence for the use of cetuximab within Oncology departments for SCCHN, and critically evaluate how cetuximab may impact on current practice. Future possibilities and trials to assess the use of cetuximab within clinical practice will also be discussed.

Keywords

cetuximabchemotherapyhead and neckradiotherapysquamous cell carcinoma
Type
Original Article
Information
Journal of Radiotherapy in Practice , Volume 7 , Issue 1 , March 2008 , pp. 1 - 7
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2008

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