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Published on: April 22, 2019
Antiepidermal growth factor receptor therapy in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Walid Shaib1, Scott Kono, Nabil Saba
1Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, 1365 Clifton Road Northeast Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
Abstract:
Squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck (SCCHN) is the most common neoplasm of the upper aerodigestive tract. In this paper, we attempt to summarize the role and applications of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors monoclonal antibodies (moAbs) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) locally advanced as well as metastatic SCCHN. Targeted therapy in SCCHN is now incorporated in the first-line regimes for advanced disease. Novel targeted agents, including the EGFR antibody, cetuximab, have been approved for use as single agents or in combination with radiation therapy or chemotherapy in treatment of recurrent metastatic or locally advanced SCCHN. Refractory mechanisms that bypass the pathway of EGFR inhibitors activity are identified explaining resistance to targeted therapy. Strategies of cotargeting EGFR and other pathways are under investigation. Examples of targeted therapy being used include mammalian target of rapamycin (mtor) inhibitors, antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) moAb, and other inhibitors. We will be focusing our paper on the preclinical and clinical aspects of EGFR inhibition in SCCHN and touch upon other targeted therapies in application.
Insights
Targeted therapies, including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors, are now standard for advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCCHN). Research explores resistance mechanisms and combination strategies for improved treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck (SCCHN) is a prevalent upper aerodigestive tract malignancy.
- Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays a crucial role in SCCHN development and progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the role and applications of EGFR inhibitors, specifically monoclonal antibodies (moAbs) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), in treating locally advanced and metastatic SCCHN.
- To review preclinical and clinical aspects of EGFR inhibition in SCCHN and discuss other targeted therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on EGFR inhibitors (moAbs and TKIs) in SCCHN treatment.
- Discussion of novel targeted agents like cetuximab and their use in combination therapies.
- Exploration of resistance mechanisms and cotargeting strategies.
Main Results:
- EGFR inhibitors are integrated into first-line treatment for advanced SCCHN.
- Cetuximab, an EGFR antibody, is approved for SCCHN in various treatment settings.
- Mechanisms of resistance to EGFR inhibitors have been identified, prompting investigation into cotargeting strategies.
Conclusions:
- Targeted therapy, particularly EGFR inhibition, has become a cornerstone in managing advanced SCCHN.
- Understanding resistance mechanisms is vital for developing more effective treatment strategies.
- Ongoing research focuses on combination therapies and novel agents to overcome treatment resistance in SCCHN.
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