Current Status of Anti Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Therapy in the Curative Treatment of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck is the most common malignancy of the upper aero digestive tract in the world. In this article, we attempt to summarize the role of antiepidermal growth factor therapy (EGFR) in the treatment of locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cetuximab plus radiotherapy is a reasonable alternative in patients who cannot tolerate standard concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CTRT). There is no benefit by adding targeted therapy in addition to standard CTRT. Trials evaluating the role of targeted agents in the adjuvant setting showed no benefit in patients with high risk features; in addition to standard post-operative CTRT. Role of adjuvant monoclonal antibody in patients with intermediate risk factors is being evaluated.