Cetuximab for Colorectal Cancer Patients with KRAS Mutations

Cetuximab recipients who had a rare mutation on codon 13 (p.G13D) experienced survival benefits vs. those with other KRAS mutations but no advantage in response rate.

The anti–epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) agents cetuximab and panitumumab are effective, both individually and in combination with chemotherapy, for treating patients with advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) who have wild-type KRAS tumors. Specific mutations in the KRAS gene have been associated with resistance to these drugs, and, as such, cetuximab is recommended for use only in patients with wild-type KRAS tumors. Most of the relevant KRAS mutations are located on codon 12, and some are located on codon 13.

Now, investigators have analyzed outcomes among chemotherapy-refractory CRC patients according to their particular KRAS mutations. In a pooled cohort of 774 patients from seven clinical trials of cetuximab with or without chemothe…

Reviewing Author

David H. Ilson, MD, PhD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardAstraZeneca; Merck; Taiho; Astellas; Bristol Myers Squibb; Regeneron; Oncolys; Amgen; Daiichi Sankyo

David H. Ilson, MD, PhD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardAstraZeneca; Merck; Taiho; Astellas; Bristol Myers Squibb; Regeneron; Oncolys; Amgen; Daiichi Sankyo