Published in:
01-06-2012 | Case study
Relapsing high grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma
Long-lasting complete response following reirradiation and EGFR blockade
Authors:
Dr. D. Milanovic, B. Jeremic, G. Kayser, H.C. Rischke, J. Pfeiffer, A. Henke
Published in:
Strahlentherapie und Onkologie
|
Issue 6/2012
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Abstract
Background and purpose
The treatment strategy for inoperable recurrent mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is not well established. Here, we present a case of a relapsed high grade MEC of the salivary glands of the hard palate that was successfully treated with a reirradiation (re-RT) and cetuximab, an antibody against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR).
Case report
Twelve years after resection and adjuvant radiotherapy for high grade MEC of the salivary glands, a patient presented with inoperable recurrent disease. She received another 59.4 Gy. In addition, 400 mg/m2 cetuximab was administered in the first week, followed by six additional weekly courses at 250 mg/m2.
Results
Treatment was well tolerated. The patient is doing well and continuous radiological complete response (CR) is documented for 25 months after completion of the combined treatment.
Conclusion
Combined re-RT and targeted inhibition of EGFR with cetuximab may be a valuable therapeutic strategy in patients with recurrent localized high grade MEC who are not candidates for radical surgery.