Trastuzumab for the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer.

Abstract

To evaluate trastuzumab for the treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Clinical literature was accessed through MEDLINE (1966-January 2003), EMBASE (1974-January 2003), International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970-January 2003), Proceedings of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (1995-January 2003), and Genentech. Key search terms included trastuzumab, lung cancer, Herceptin, and NSCLC. Research has revealed that NSCLC specimens may express the protein HER-2/neu. The monoclonal antibody against HER-2/neu, trastuzumab, could prove valuable for patients. An evaluation of the studies exploring trastuzumab for management of NSCLC was conducted. Phase II clinical trials reveal variable response rates from no improvement to a partial response rate of 42%. Due to a lack of clinical trials and deficiencies in the literature, the ultimate benefit of this agent remains to be proven. Clinical data from ongoing trials indicate potential synergy when trastuzumab is added to standard chemotherapy. The ultimate benefit in NSCLC remains to be proven.