Head and neck cancer: the role of anti-EGFR agents in the era of immunotherapy

Abstract

Head and neck cancers (HNC) represent the seventh most frequent cancer worldwide, with squamous cell carcinomas as the most frequent histologic subtype. Standard treatment for early stage diseases is represented by single modality surgery or radiotherapy, whereas in the locally advanced and recurrent or metastatic settings a more aggressive multi-modal approach is needed with locoregional intervention and/or systemic therapies. Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) plays an important role in HNC biology and has been studied extensively in preclinical and clinical settings. In this scenario, anti-EGFR targeted agent cetuximab, introduced in clinical practice a decade ago, represents the only approved targeted therapy to date, while the development of immune-checkpoint inhibitors has recently changed the available treatment options. In this review, we focus on the current role of anti-EGFR therapies in HNCs, underlying available clinical data and mechanisms of resistance, and highlight future perspectives regarding their role in the era of immunotherapy.

Prevalence of HPV in Mexican Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Carcinoma and Identification of Potential Prognostic Biomarkers

“…It is worth noting that both molecules are therapeutic targets. In this regard, it is relevant that cetuximab was the first targeted therapy approved for the treatment of HNSCC [ 63 ] and is currently the only clinically approved targeted therapy for this malignancy, although its use is limited [ 64 ]. Su et al suggested that the benefit of EGFR inhibitors is probably restricted to p16+ cases and depends on the type of treatment [ 65 ].…”

“…Su et al suggested that the benefit of EGFR inhibitors is probably restricted to p16+ cases and depends on the type of treatment [ 65 ]. Various clinical studies are currently being carried out in HNSCC with several EGFR inhibitors, especially in locally advanced disease, some in the context of HPV, as well as recurrence and metastasis [ 64 ].…”

The Application of Inorganic Nanoparticles in Molecular Targeted Cancer Therapy: EGFR Targeting

“…Frequent abnormalities in the expression of EGFR and EGFR-mediated activation of downstream signaling pathways have been detected in many human malignancies. Anti-EGFR targeted therapy has been brought into focus in recent years ( Chen et al, 2020a ; Fasano et al, 2021 ). To date, two primary species of EGFR targeted agents include monoclonal antibodies (McAb) and small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI).…”

Translational Insights and New Therapeutic Perspectives in Head and Neck Tumors

“…EGFR mAb EGFR (epithelial growth factor receptor) is a member of the ErbB/HER family, overexpressed in about 90% of HNSCCs. Its expression is related to poor survival because of resistance to radiotherapy and local treatments; nevertheless, its prognostic role is still quite controversial [5]. In 2006, cetuximab, an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody (mAb), was approved in HNSCC treatment.…”