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The epidermal growth factor receptor in squamous cell carcinoma: An emerging drug target

Daniel C Gaffney1, H Peter Soyer, Fiona Simpson

  • 1Dermatology Research Centre, The University of Queensland, School of Medicine, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Department of Dermatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Epithelial Pathobiology Group, University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.

The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|February 22, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a growing skin cancer concern. Targeted therapies blocking epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) offer a key non-surgical treatment for advanced cases.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a prevalent skin cancer with significant morbidity.
  • Advanced SCC can be metastatic and treatment-resistant.
  • Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors are crucial non-surgical options for advanced SCC.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the role of EGFR in skin cancer.
  • To summarize outcomes of anti-EGFR targeted therapies.
  • To discuss the future of anti-EGFR therapies in skin cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of published outcomes for anti-EGFR therapies.
  • Analysis of EGFR's role in skin carcinogenesis.
  • Discussion of current and future therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

  • EGFR plays a significant role in skin cancer development.
  • Targeted anti-EGFR therapies show promise for advanced SCC.
  • Understanding the evidence and side effect profiles is essential.

Conclusions:

  • Anti-EGFR therapies represent a significant advancement in treating advanced skin SCC.
  • Informed patient advice requires knowledge of treatment efficacy and adverse effects.
  • Targeted molecular therapies are increasingly important in oncology.
Keywords:
cetuximabepidermal growth factorerlotinibgefitinibpanitumumabsquamous cell carcinoma

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