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Published on: April 22, 2019
Efficacy and Safety of Paclitaxel Combined With Cetuximab for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Takuro Okada1, Isaku Okamoto2, Hiroki Sato1
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan.
Background/Aim:
For recurrent/metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (R/M SCCHN), popular regimens containing platinum-based anticancer agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors are impractical for platinum-intolerant patients. Herein, the efficacy and safety of paclitaxel and cetuximab combination therapy in R/M SCCHN were evaluated.
Patients And Methods:
In this retrospective study, paclitaxel (80 mg/m2) and cetuximab (400 mg/m2 loading dose followed by 250 mg/m2 weekly) were administered in 28-day cycles on days 1, 8, and 15.
Results:
Thirty-eight patients were treated. The overall response and disease control rates of first-line therapy were 43% and 79%, respectively, while those of second-line and later therapies were 20% and 90%, respectively. The median progression-free and overall survival were 5.3 and 12.5 months, respectively. All adverse events were manageable, including grade 3/4 neutropenia and anaemia affecting 8-13% of patients.
Conclusion:
Paclitaxel and cetuximab combination therapy may be suitable for treating R/M SCCHN.
