Combination of cetuximab and chemotherapy in the first-line treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer: Slovakian experience.

Abstract

622 Background: Cetuximab is an EGFR-targeting IgG1 monoclonal antibody that is active against EGFR-expressing Kras wild type metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) in monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy. Here, we report efficacy and safety of combination of cetuximab and chemotherapy in patients (pts) with mCRC treated in major cancer centers in Slovakia from 01/2009 to 07/2010. Methods: Forty consecutive pts (28F/12M) with EGFR expressing Kras wild type mCRC (14 pts-rectal cancer, 26 pts-colon cancer) treated with irinotecan-based (29 pts-73%) and oxaliplatin-based (11 pts-27%) chemotherapy were evaluated. Median age was 59 years (44-77).17 pts were pretreated with adjuvant therapy. No of metastatic sites: 1 mts -22 pts (55%), 2 mts-13 pts (32.5%), 3 mts -5pts (12.5%). Median CEA level before therapy 13.5 (1-1,800). Results: 10 pts achieved complete remission (25%), 21 pts partial remission (52.5%), 8pts disease stabilization, 1pt disease progression. Median progression-free survival (mPFS) was 16 months, 1 year survival 65%-95% CI (50-80), median follow-up was 13 months (range 4-20m). The main Gr 3-4 toxicity was skin rash 2pts (5%) and diarrhea 2 pts (5%). Any grade toxicity: rash 32 pts (80%), diarhea 8pts (20%), neuropathy 8pts (20%), weakness 3pts (7.5%), neutropenia 2pts (5%), trombocytopenia 2pts (5%). Conclusions: Our experience confirms the efficacy and acceptable safety profile of combination chemotherapy and cetuximab in first line mCRC patients. No significant financial relationships to disclose.