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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
07:29
Intramucosal Inoculation of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells in Mice for Tumor Immune Profiling and Treatment Response Assessment
Published on: April 22, 2019
Targeted therapy in head and neck cancer
Lisa Licitra1, Cristiana Bergamini, Aurora Mirabile
1Head and Neck Cancer Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS 'Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori' in Milan, Italy. lisa.licitra@istitutotumori.mi.it
Summary
Targeted cancer therapies, including monoclonal antibodies and small molecules, are evolving for head and neck cancer (HNC). Research is refining the use of these agents, especially for human papilloma virus (HPV)-positive tumors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Head and Neck Cancer Research
- Targeted Cancer Therapy
Background:
- Clinical studies on targeted cancer therapies are rapidly accumulating in head and neck cancer (HNC).
- Physicians treating HNC require awareness of evolving research due to the disease's multidisciplinary needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent clinical study results on targeted agents for head and neck cancer.
- To highlight the importance of staying updated on advancements in HNC treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent phase III studies on targeted agents for HNC.
- Analysis of ongoing investigations into small molecules and other targeted agents.
Main Results:
- Monoclonal antibodies like cetuximab show promise in HNC treatment.
- Efficacy of small molecules inhibiting epithelial growth factor receptors (EGFRs) is still under investigation.
- Targeted agents targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, MET, and others are in development.
Conclusions:
- Treatment options for HNC are expanding to include targeted agents with demonstrated efficacy.
- Patient selection for targeted therapies based on biological factors is a key area of ongoing research.
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