Cetuximab as a Component of Multimodality Treatment of High-Risk Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Retrospective Analysis From a Single Tertiary Academic Medical Center

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer and has potential for regional or distant metastasis. Despite the standardization of features associated with high-risk cSCC, an advanced subset of cSCC, there is no established consensus regarding proper management of this tumor. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of cetuximab, add to existing management options, and aid in the development of standardized treatment for this tumor. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medical records were searched using Current Procedural Terminology codes for cetuximab and cSCC. Demographic data and tumor characteristics, along with treatment regimens and follow-up times, were collected. A total of 20 cases were examined. RESULTS: Of the 20 cases, 3 experienced a complete response and 7 experienced a partial response, yielding an overall response of 50% and a combined median disease-free survival of 6.35 months (range 1-46.8 months). CONCLUSION: As most of the patients who experienced a response received cetuximab as part of a multimodality treatment approach, cetuximab may be most efficacious when administered with concurrent therapies such as surgery or radiation. Further larger prospective studies to determine the optimal dosing and frequency of cetuximab and the utility of concurrent therapies are warranted.