Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 targeted agents in gynecologic cancers: an updated review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is an established oncogenic target in solid tumors.
• HER2 overexpression/amplification is linked to advanced disease and aggressive biology in gynecologic cancers.
• Current HER2 testing guidelines for gynecologic cancers are inconsistent and often based on outdated breast cancer recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify HER2 terminology and testing methodologies in gynecologic cancers.
• To review the efficacy of HER2-targeted treatments in gynecologic malignancies.
• To synthesize recommendations for HER2-directed therapy in ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of HER2 testing algorithms and clinical trials in gynecologic cancers.
• Analysis of current guidelines and identification of discrepancies.
• Synthesis of data on HER2-targeted therapies and their clinical impact.

Main Results:

• Existing HER2 testing guidelines for gynecologic cancers are outdated and lack consensus for ovarian and cervical cancers.
• Accumulating evidence supports the efficacy of HER2-targeted treatments across gynecologic cancer types.
• There is an urgent need to standardize HER2 measurement and reporting.

Conclusions:

• Standardized HER2 testing is essential for guiding HER2-targeted treatment in gynecologic cancers.
• Practitioners require updated knowledge on HER2-directed therapies, including potential side effects and drug interactions.
• This review provides a framework for consistent HER2 assessment and treatment strategies in gynecologic oncology.