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Scarini JF, Lavareze L, Lima-Souza RAD, Emerick C, Gonçalves MT, Figueiredo-Maciel T, Vieira GDS, Kimura TDC, de Sá RS, Aquino IG, Fernandes PM, Kowalski LP, Altemani A, Mariano FV, Egal ESA. Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Exploring frontiers of combinatorial approaches with tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint therapy. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2022; 180:103863. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Targeted cancer therapies: Oral health care implications. J Am Dent Assoc 2019; 149:100-111. [PMID: 29389333 DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2017.08.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeted treatments have been incorporated into oncology protocols, often with more traditional therapies, and are not totally free of adverse reactions, some of which affect the orofacial region. METHODS The authors searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and the US Food and Drug Administration Approved Drug Products database to identify reported adverse effects of targeted agents in the orofacial region as well as other implications in oral health care. Their principal focus was the relatively newer category of molecularly targeted drugs which are called small molecules (SMs). RESULTS The authors identified several categories of SMs and biological agents (for example, monoclonal antibodies) with adverse effects in the orofacial region. The oral and perioral regions are also fields for which there are therapeutic applications for targeted therapies, particularly to treat malignant neoplasms such as head and neck cancers. CONCLUSIONS SMs are the most rapidly growing group of targeted cancer treatments. Patients receiving SMs and other targeted antineoplastic agents may require oral medicine advice and special-care dentistry. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS In this narrative review, the authors focus mainly on the orofacial adverse effects of targeted cancer therapies and outline many of the agents that are in use so the dentally focused reader can familiarize themselves with these adverse effects and agents.
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Phase I Trial Using Induction Ciplatin, Docetaxel, 5-FU and Erlotinib Followed by Cisplatin, Bevacizumab and Erlotinib With Concurrent Radiotherapy for Advanced Head and Neck Cancer. Am J Clin Oncol 2019; 41:441-446. [PMID: 27391356 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000000317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Bevacizumab (avastin) and erlotinib (tarceva) had shown early clinical activity against head and neck cancer (HNC). We initiated a phase I trial of induction cisplatin, docetaxel, 5-fluorouracil and erlotinib (TPF-E) followed by cisplatin, bevacizumab and erlotinib (PA-E) with radiotherapy (XRT) for advanced HNC. The goal was to determine maximum tolerated erlotinib dose. METHODS Eligible patients had stage IVA or higher HNC with good performance status, hematologic, and renal reserve. Two cycles of induction TPF-E were administered. XRT was administered with concurrent weekly cisplatin and bevacizumab every 2 weeks. Initial erlotinib dose was 50 mg daily from start of induction chemotherapy until radiotherapy completion. Erlotinib dose escalations to 100 and 150 mg were planned. RESULTS Thirteen patients with previously untreated locoregional disease (11 patients) or oligometastatic (2 patients) HNC were enrolled. Totally, 11 of 13 patients completed XRT as planned. Four of 8 patients in cohort 1 (erlotinib 50 mg), 3 of 4 patients in cohort 2 (100 mg), and 0 of 1 patients in cohort 3 (150 mg) completed the regimen. Two patients had significant gastrointestinal complications (bleeding and perforation), and 1 had dose-limiting diarrhea. Maximum tolerated dose was reached at 50 mg erlotinib. At median 23.4 months follow-up, 5 patients (38%) have no evidence of disease, and 2 (15%) have stable but measurable disease. CONCLUSIONS Erlotinib in combination with induction TPF followed by erlotinib, cisplatin, and bevacizumab with XRT is active but toxic. Gastrointestinal toxicities partly caused high rates of study withdrawal. All doses studied in this protocol caused unexpected toxicities and we do not recommend advancement to phase II.
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Bossi P, Platini F. Radiotherapy plus EGFR inhibitors: synergistic modalities. CANCERS OF THE HEAD & NECK 2017; 2:2. [PMID: 31093349 PMCID: PMC6460772 DOI: 10.1186/s41199-016-0020-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Locally advanced (stage III or IV) squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) often requires multimodal treatment, consisting of a combination of surgery, radiation, and/or systemic therapy, namely chemotherapy or targeted agents. The expression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been detected in more than 90% of all cases of SCCHN and has been correlated with decreased survival rates, resistance to radiotherapy, loco-regional treatment failure, and increased rates of distant metastases. This paper discusses several strategies aimed at targeting EGFR in combination with radiation. Until now, cetuximab, an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody, is the only targeted agent that has been shown to improve overall survival in combination with radiation therapy. However, considering that there are multiple mechanisms of primary and acquired resistance to EGFR inhibitors, we focused on dissecting molecular pathways of EGFR inhibition to find alternative or complementary strategies for increasing tumour responsiveness. We suggest that the combination of treatments targeting the EGFR pathway and drugs aimed at increasing immune responses represent a promising approach that deserves to be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bossi
- 1Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Platini
- 2Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has a dismal prognosis. With the emergence of monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), several drugs were developed and tested in HNSCC. To date, the monoclonal antibody cetuximab is the only approved therapy for curative and recurrent/metastatic patients. Other EGFR-targeting drugs either failed in the clinical trials or are still in the early phases of drug development and research. AREAS COVERED In this article, previously published data and ongoing studies regarding dacomitinib, a second-generation irreversible TKI, for the treatment of HNSCC are presented and discussed. EXPERT OPINION The current body of evidence is not mature enough to indicate the use of dacomitinib for the treatment of HNSCC in curative or in recurrent/metastatic settings. Phase II data suggest the potential of improved outcome in selected recurrent/metastatic HNSCC based on several biomarkers, which need to be evaluated in randomized phase III trials. Meanwhile, an ongoing phase I study is investigating dacomitinib's optimal dosing combined with and without cisplatin in the curative concomitant chemoradiotherapy setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olgun Elicin
- a Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital , Bern University Hospital and University of Bern , Bern , Switzerland
| | - Mahmut Ozsahin
- b Department of Radiation Oncology , University of Lausanne, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) , Lausanne , Switzerland
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Saini SK, Srivastava S, Dixit AK. Gefitinib concurrente con quimiorradiación en el cáncer de cabeza y cuello localmente avanzado. GACETA MEXICANA DE ONCOLOGÍA 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gamo.2016.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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Gefitinib with concurrent chemoradiation in locally advanced head neck cancer. GACETA MEXICANA DE ONCOLOGÍA 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gamo.2016.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Ugurluer G, Ozsahin M. Early investigational drugs that target epidermal growth factor receptors for the treatment of head and neck cancer. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 23:1637-54. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2014.951435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Integration of molecular targeted therapy with radiation in head and neck cancer. Pharmacol Ther 2014; 142:88-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Bossi P, Locati L, Licitra L. Emerging tyrosine kinase inhibitors for head and neck cancer. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2013; 18:445-59. [DOI: 10.1517/14728214.2013.842976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Argiris A. Current status and future directions in induction chemotherapy for head and neck cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2013; 88:57-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2013.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2012] [Revised: 01/22/2013] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Ree AH, Hollywood D. Design and conduct of early-phase radiotherapy trials with targeted therapeutics: lessons from the PRAVO experience. Radiother Oncol 2013; 108:3-16. [PMID: 23830196 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2013.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2013] [Revised: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
New strategies to facilitate the improvement of physical and integrated biological optimization of high-precision treatment protocols are an important priority for modern radiation oncology. From a clinical perspective, as knowledge accumulates from molecular radiobiology, there is a complex and exciting opportunity to investigate novel approaches to rational patient treatment stratification based on actionable tumor targets, together with the appropriate design of next-generation early-phase radiotherapy trials utilizing targeted therapeutics, to formally evaluate relevant clinical and biomarker endpoints. A unique aspect in the development pathway of systemic agents with presumed radiosensitizing activity will also be the need for special attention on patient eligibility and the rigorous definition of radiation dose-volume relationships and potential dose-limiting toxicities. Based on recent experience from systematically investigating histone deacetylase inhibitors as radiosensitizing agents, from initial studies in preclinical tumor models through the conduct of a phase I clinical study to evaluate tumor activity of the targeted agent as well as patient safety and tumor response to the combined treatment modality, this communication will summarize principles relating to early clinical evaluation of combining radiotherapy and targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Hansen Ree
- Department of Oncology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway.
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Hoffmann TK. Systemic therapy strategies for head-neck carcinomas: Current status. GMS CURRENT TOPICS IN OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY, HEAD AND NECK SURGERY 2012; 11:Doc03. [PMID: 23320055 PMCID: PMC3544206 DOI: 10.3205/cto000085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Head and neck cancers, most of which are squamous cell tumours, have an unsatisfactory prognosis despite intensive local treatment. This can be attributed, among other factors, to tumour recurrences inside or outside the treated area, and metastases at more distal locations. These tumours therefore require not only the standard surgical and radiation treatments, but also effective systemic modalities. The main option here is antineoplastic chemotherapy, which is firmly established in the palliative treatment of recurrent or metastatic stages of disease, and is used with curative intent in the form of combined simultaneous or adjuvant chemoradiotherapy in patients with inoperable or advanced tumour stages. Neoadjuvant treatment strategies for tumour reduction before surgery have yet to gain acceptance. Induction chemotherapy protocols before radiotherapy have to date been used in patients at high risk of distant metastases or as an aid for decision-making ("chemoselection") in those with extensive laryngeal cancers, prior to definitive chemoradiotherapy or laryngectomy. Triple-combination induction therapy (taxanes, cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil) shows high remission rates with significant toxicity and, in combination with (chemo-)radiotherapy, is currently being compared with simultaneous chemoradiotherapy; the current gold standard with regards to efficacy and long-term toxicity.A further systemic treatment strategy, called "targeted therapy", has been developed to help increase specificity and reduce toxicity. An example of targeted therapy, EGFR-specific antibodies, can be used in palliative settings and, in combination with radiotherapy, to treat advanced head and neck cancers. A series of other novel biologicals such as signal cascade inhibitors, genetic agents, or immunotherapies, are currently being evaluated in large-scale clinical studies, and could prove useful in patients with advanced, recurring or metastatic head and neck cancers. When developing a lasting, individualised systemic tumour therapy, the critical evaluation criteria are not only efficacy and acute toxicity but also (long-term) quality-of-life and the identification of dedicated predictive biomarkers.
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Agulnik M. New approaches to EGFR inhibition for locally advanced or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Med Oncol 2012; 29:2481-91. [PMID: 22252310 PMCID: PMC3466428 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-012-0159-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2011] [Accepted: 01/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Despite recent advances in radiotherapy and chemotherapy, survival rates for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) have remained poor. The focus of SCCHN therapy has more recently shifted to the molecular level, particularly the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/ErbB) pathway. Several agents that target the EGFR pathway, including monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, are under investigation for SCCHN. Searches of PubMed and results of key oncology congresses were performed to identify relevant articles and abstracts. The EGFR-targeted monoclonal antibody cetuximab is approved for the treatment of locally advanced SCCHN in combination with radiotherapy, for first-line treatment of recurrent or metastatic SCCHN in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy and 5-fluorouracil, and for recurrent or metastatic SCCHN following progression with platinum-based chemotherapy. Other investigational EGFR-targeted monoclonal antibodies (e.g., panitumumab, nimotuzumab, zalutumumab) are in clinical development for SCCHN. Inhibition of the tyrosine kinase domain of EGFR has also been explored as a therapeutic approach in SCCHN using small-molecule reversible inhibitors, such as gefitinib and erlotinib. However, a key challenge in SCCHN is the development of resistance, and strategies are being pursued to delay or overcome resistance to EGFR-targeted agents. These strategies include development of agents that inhibit multiple ErbB receptors simultaneously (e.g., lapatinib) or that bind multiple ErbB family receptors irreversibly (e.g., afatinib, PF-00299804) and investigation of combinations of agents that target multiple pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of SCCHN. Ongoing large clinical trials are evaluating these emerging agents and combinations for the treatment of SCCHN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Agulnik
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 North Saint Clair Street, Suite 850, Chicago, IL 60611-2942, USA.
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Heath CH, Deep NL, Nabell L, Carroll WR, Desmond R, Clemons L, Spencer S, Magnuson JS, Rosenthal EL. Phase 1 study of erlotinib plus radiation therapy in patients with advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2012. [PMID: 23182701 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2012.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the toxicity profile of erlotinib therapy combined with postoperative adjuvant radiation therapy in patients with advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. METHODS AND MATERIALS This was a single-arm, prospective, phase 1 open-label study of erlotinib with radiation therapy to treat 15 patients with advanced cutaneous head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma. Toxicity data were summarized, and survival was analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS The majority of patients were male (87%) and presented with T4 disease (93%). The most common toxicity attributed to erlotinib was a grade 2-3 dermatologic reaction occurring in 100% of the patients, followed by mucositis (87%). Diarrhea occurred in 20% of the patients. The 2-year recurrence rate was 26.7%, and mean time to cancer recurrence was 10.5 months. Two-year overall survival was 65%, and disease-free survival was 60%. CONCLUSIONS Erlotinib and radiation therapy had an acceptable toxicity profile in patients with advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. The disease-free survival in this cohort was comparable to that in historical controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Hope Heath
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Thariat J, Bensadoun RJ, Etienne-Grimaldi MC, Grall D, Penault-Llorca F, Dassonville O, Bertucci F, Cayre A, De Raucourt D, Geoffrois L, Finetti P, Giraud P, Racadot S, Morinière S, Sudaka A, Van Obberghen-Schilling E, Milano G. Contrasted Outcomes to Gefitinib on Tumoral IGF1R Expression in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Receiving Postoperative Chemoradiation (GORTEC Trial 2004-02). Clin Cancer Res 2012; 18:5123-33. [DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-1518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Cmelak AJ. Current issues in combined modality therapy in locally advanced head and neck cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2012; 84:261-73. [PMID: 22595517 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2012.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2011] [Revised: 04/05/2012] [Accepted: 04/13/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Curative treatment for patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (SCCHN) is complex and multidisciplinary. Our understanding of the optimal management of this disease has improved over the years, incorporating refined surgical approaches, better radiotherapy delivery methods, and greater use of systemic therapies. Investigation into shifting epidemiology patterns has uncovered two biologically and clinically distinct diseases: the smoking-related entity and the increasingly common malignancy associated with human papilloma virus (HPV). Prognosis favors the latter, driving newer investigations into dose de-intensification to limit toxicities in patients with HPV-driven disease, and alternatively intensifying treatment to improve tumor control in those with a significant smoking history. In this review, I describe the most recent progress in the multi-modal integration of radiotherapy and chemoradiotherapy, and the role of targeted agents and personalized therapy, and conclude with a discussion of the relevance of these innovations with respect to HPV tumor status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Cmelak
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN 37232-5671, USA.
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Targeted therapy in head and neck cancer. Tumour Biol 2012; 33:707-21. [PMID: 22373581 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-012-0350-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2011] [Accepted: 02/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) of multi-factorial etiopathogenesis is rising worldwide. Treatment-associated toxicity problems and treatment failure in advanced disease stages with conventional therapies have necessitated a focus on alternative strategies. Molecular targeted therapy, with the potential for increased selectivity and fewer adverse effects, hold promise in the treatment of HNSCC. In an attempt to improve outcomes in HNSCC, targeted therapeutic strategies have been developed. These strategies are focusing on the molecular biology of HNSCC in an attempt to target selected pathways involved in carcinogenesis. Inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis by focusing on specific protein or signal transduction pathways or by targeting the tumor microenvironment or vasculature are some of the new approaches. Targeted agents for HNSCC expected to improve the effectiveness of current therapy include EGFR inhibitors (Cetuximab, Panitumumab, Zalutumumab), EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (Gefitinib, Erloitinib), VEGFR inhibitors (Bevacizumab, Vandetanib), and various inhibitors of, e.g., Src-family kinase, PARP, proteasome, mTOR, COX, and heat shock protein. Moreover, targeted molecular therapy can also act as a complement to other existing cancer therapies. Several studies have demonstrated that the combination of targeting techniques with conventional current treatment protocols may improve the treatment outcome and disease control, without exacerbating the treatment related toxicities. Some of the targeted approaches have been proved as promising therapeutic potentials and are already in use, whereas remainder exhibits mixed result and necessitates further studies. Identification of predictive biomarkers of resistance or sensitivity to these therapies remains a fundamental challenge in the optimal selection of patients most likely to benefit from targeted treatment.
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Molecular targeting agents in the context of primary chemoradiation strategies. Head Neck 2012; 35:738-46. [DOI: 10.1002/hed.22012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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Lewis CM, Glisson BS, Feng L, Wan F, Tang X, Wistuba II, El-Naggar AK, Rosenthal DI, Chambers MS, Lustig RA, Weber RS. A phase II study of gefitinib for aggressive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Clin Cancer Res 2012; 18:1435-46. [PMID: 22261807 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-11-1951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the disease control rate and toxicity of treating patients with aggressive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) with neoadjuvant gefitinib. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN A prospective phase II clinical trial evaluating neoadjuvant gefitinib given prior to standard treatment with surgery and/or radiotherapy. Patients with stable disease after one cycle received escalated doses. Patients who responded were given gefitinib during radiation therapy, as well as maintenance therapy after definitive treatment. We analyzed the correlation between epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression, mutation status, and gene copy number on available tissue samples and clinical response. RESULTS Twenty-three patients were accrued and 22 patients were evaluable for response prior to definitive local treatment; complete responses were attained by 18.2% of patients and partial responses by 27.3%. Grades 2 to 3 toxicities were observed in 59.1% of patients experiencing class-specific effects during induction therapy. After induction, 11.8% underwent surgery alone, 17.6% had definitive radiation, 11.8% were treated with radiation and concurrent gefitinib, and 47% had surgery with postoperative radiation and concurrent gefitinib. Median follow-up for the censored observations was 32 months. Two-year overall, disease-specific, and progression-free survival rates were 72.1%, 72.1%, and 63.6%, respectively. No EGFR-activating mutations were identified in tumor samples available from 10 patients. No associations between EGFR correlative studies and patient outcomes were identified. CONCLUSIONS Gefitinib, in the neoadjuvant setting, was active and well tolerated in patients with aggressive CSCC and did not interfere with definitive treatment. In view of the 18% complete response rate we observed, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors should be further explored in the treatment of aggressive CSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol M Lewis
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Rodriguez CP, Adelstein DJ, Rybicki LA, Saxton JP, Lorenz RR, Wood BG, Scharpf J, Ives DI. Single-arm phase II study of multiagent concurrent chemoradiotherapy and gefitinib in locoregionally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Head Neck 2011; 34:1517-23. [PMID: 22180262 DOI: 10.1002/hed.21971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2011] [Revised: 06/16/2011] [Accepted: 09/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This phase II study tested the addition of the oral epidermal growth factor receptor gefitinib to multiagent concurrent chemoradiotherapy regimen in head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC). METHODS Patients with stage III-IV HNSCC received hyperfractionated radiation (72-74.4 Gy at 120 cGy twice daily), with concurrent 96-hour infusions of cisplatin 20 mg/m(2) /day and fluorouracil 1000 mg/m(2) /day given during weeks 1 and 4. Daily gefitinib 250 mg was started on day 1 of radiation and continued for 2 years. Results were retrospectively compared with our previous study using identical chemoradiotherapy without gefitinib. RESULTS Sixty patients were enrolled in the study; 80% had stage IV disease and 68% had oropharyngeal primary tumors. The full course of gefitinib was not tolerated by 42%; there were 5 treatment-related deaths (8%). With a median follow-up of 54 months, 2- and 3-year overall survival estimates were 80% and 71%, respectively. Projected distant metastatic control at 2 and 3 years was 88%. When compared with our historical cohort, acute toxicities including renal dysfunction and unplanned rehospitalization were worse in the study patients. Projected outcome estimates did not differ between the 2 cohorts. CONCLUSIONS Addition of gefitinib to concurrent chemoradiotherapy was difficult to complete, did not improve outcomes, and increased toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina P Rodriguez
- Department of Solid Tumor Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Gregoire V, Hamoir M, Chen C, Kane M, Kawecki A, Julka PK, Wang HM, Prasad S, D'Cruz AK, Radosevic-Jelic L, Kumar RR, Korzeniowski S, Fijuth J, Machiels JP, Sellers MV, Tchakov I, Raben D. Gefitinib plus cisplatin and radiotherapy in previously untreated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a phase II, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Radiother Oncol 2011; 100:62-9. [PMID: 21821303 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2011.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2011] [Revised: 07/09/2011] [Accepted: 07/09/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE To assess the efficacy and safety of gefitinib given concomitantly and/or as maintenance therapy to standard cisplatin/radiotherapy for previously untreated, unresected, stage III/IV non-metastatic SCCHN. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this phase II, double-blind, study, 226 patients were randomized to gefitinib 250mg/day, 500mg/day or placebo in two phases: a concomitant phase (gefitinib or placebo with chemoradiotherapy), followed by a maintenance phase (gefitinib or placebo alone). Primary endpoint was local disease control rate (LDCR) at 2years; secondary endpoints were LDCR at 1year, objective response rate, progression-free survival, overall survival, and safety and tolerability. RESULTS Gefitinib (250 and 500mg/day) did not improve 2-year LDCR compared with placebo either when given concomitantly with chemoradiotherapy (32.7% vs. 33.6%, respectively; OR 0.921, 95% CI 0.508, 1.670 [1-sided p=0.607]) or as maintenance therapy (28.8% vs. 37.4%, respectively; OR 0.684, 95% CI 0.377, 1.241 [1-sided p=0.894]). Secondary efficacy outcomes were broadly consistent with the 2-year LDCR results. In both doses, gefitinib was well-tolerated and did not adversely affect the safety and tolerability of concomitant chemoradiotherapy. CONCLUSION Gefitinib was well-tolerated, but did not improve efficacy compared with placebo when given concomitantly with chemoradiotherapy, or as maintenance therapy alone.
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Abstract
IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the eighth leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Despite advances in surgery and chemoradiation therapy, there has been little improvement in survival rates over the past 4 decades. Additionally, surgery and chemoradiotherapy have serious side effects. The development of agents with greater efficacy and tolerability is needed. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW EGFR is the only proven molecular target for HNSCC therapy. Cetuximab, the sole FDA-approved molecular targeted HNSCC therapy, and other potential targeted therapies are being evaluated in preclinical, clinical and post-marketing studies. Here, we review the emerging targets for biological agents in HNSCC and the rationale for their selection. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN Key information in the development of new drug targets and the emergence of new biomarkers are discussed. Readers will gain insight regarding the limitations of current therapies, the impact of recently approved targeted therapies and the influence that predictive biomarkers will have on drug development. TAKE HOME MESSAGE The head and neck cancer drug market is rapidly evolving. Coordination between drug and biomarker development efforts may soon yield targeted therapies that can achieve the promise of personalized cancer medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Fung
- University of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Department of Otolaryngology, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Physician-Scientist Training Program, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Medical Fellows Program, Chevy Chase, Maryland, USA
| | - Jennifer R Grandis
- University of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Department of Otolaryngology, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- University of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Eye and Ear Institute, 200 Lothrop St., Suite 500, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Moon C, Chae YK, Lee J. Targeting epidermal growth factor receptor in head and neck cancer: lessons learned from cetuximab. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2010; 235:907-20. [DOI: 10.1258/ebm.2009.009181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As early detection strategies have not been successful, most patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) present with advanced (stages III and IV) disease. Oral cavity tumors are treated primarily with surgical resection and advanced tumors of the pharynx and larynx are generally treated with combined modality therapy (chemoradiation). The major advances in the management of HNC have evolved from the integration of targeted therapeutics into treatment regimens. Presently, the most important target for new therapeutic strategies in HNC is the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and so far only cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody targeting EGFR, has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in the HNC population as a radiation-sensitizing agent for patients undergoing primary radiation-based treatment and for patients with recurrent or metastatic disease. Other receptor and non-receptor kinase targeting strategies are under active clinical investigation as well. The increasing number of molecular targeting strategies in clinical development underscores the need to identify which HNC patients will respond to specific therapies. This article focuses on the current preclinical and clinical evidence of monoclonal antibodies targeting EGFR in HNC. We will first review the mechanisms of action of cetuximab, its clinical trials and side-effect profiles, and its present clinical application. Then, the current development status of other molecular antibodies and two molecular inhibitors, gefitinib and erlotinib, will be examined. Finally, by focusing on cetuximab, the current issues in EGFR targeting will be reviewed and we propose future directions of EGFR targeting. We hope that this review will provide further insight into the future directions of targeted therapy in the management of advanced HNC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chulso Moon
- Graduate Program in Human Genetics
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
- Current address: Cleo Craig Cancer Research Program, 5002 Lee Boulevard, Lawton, OK 73505
| | - Young Kwang Chae
- Housestaff Training Program, Department of Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein Medical School, Philadelphia, PA 10461, USA
| | - Juna Lee
- Graduate Program in Human Genetics
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
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A phase II study of perioperative concurrent chemotherapy, gefitinib, and hyperfractionated radiation followed by maintenance gefitinib in locoregionally advanced esophagus and gastroesophageal junction cancer. J Thorac Oncol 2010; 5:229-35. [PMID: 20009775 DOI: 10.1097/jto.0b013e3181c5e334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) for locoregionally advanced esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer produces high locoregional control rates but suboptimal distant metastatic control (DMC) and overall survival. This phase II study added gefitinib (G) to our previously tested CCRT regimen in an effort to improve these outcomes. METHODS Eligibility required T3, N1, or M1a esophageal or gastroesophageal junction squamous cell or adenocarcinoma staged by esophageal ultrasound and positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Four-day continuous intravenous infusions of cisplatin (20 mg/m/d) and fluorouracil (1000 mg/m/d) began on day 1 of preoperative radiation (30 Gy and 1.5 Gy bid). Surgery followed in 4 to 6 weeks, and an identical course of CCRT 6 to 10 weeks postoperatively. G 250 mg/d was given with preoperative CCRT for 4 weeks and restarted with postoperative therapy for 2 years. Results were retrospectively compared with our historical series of 93 patients given CCRT without G. RESULTS Between April 2003 and July 2006, 80 patients were enrolled. Patient and tumor characteristics were similar to our historical series. G did not increase toxicity except for development of rash in 42 (53%) and diarrhea in 44 (55%) 3-year Kaplan-Meier estimates (G versus non-G treated patients) included: overall survival (42% versus 28%, p = 0.06), DMC (40% versus 32%, p = 0.33), and locoregional control (76% versus 77%, p = 0.74). Intolerance for G maintenance occurred in 48% of patients. Patients who experienced G related diarrhea appeared to have improved outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Although G did not worsen CCRT toxicity, maintenance therapy proved difficult. This contemporary cohort of patients enjoyed superior survival, which does not solely reflect a decrease in DMC and merits further investigation.
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Molecular targeted therapies in all histologies of head and neck cancers: an update. Curr Opin Oncol 2010; 22:212-20. [DOI: 10.1097/cco.0b013e328338001f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Sundvall M, Karrila A, Nordberg J, Grénman R, Elenius K. EGFR targeting drugs in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2010; 15:185-201. [DOI: 10.1517/14728211003716442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Current world literature. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2010; 18:134-45. [PMID: 20234215 DOI: 10.1097/moo.0b013e3283383ef9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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