EGFR-directed antibodies increase the risk of severe infection in cancer patients

摘要: Monoclonal antibodies directed to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have a role in management of several solid tumors, alone or combination with chemotherapy radiation therapy. Recognized toxicities included hypersensitivity reactions, rash, hypomagnesemia, and constitutional symptoms, but possibility that agents lead immunosuppression increase risk infection has only recently been recognized. Two latest meta-analyses, including published article by Qi et al., highlight increased severe infections EGFR-directed monoclonal antibodies. Further studies are needed better identify association between antibody treatment infection, as well elucidate mechanism this toxicity develop tools patients at for these complications. In meantime, awareness may implications dose modification strategies both clinical trial design practice oncology. Please see related article: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1741-7015/12/203.