Successful administration of cetuximab using dose escalation method: a case report

J Med Case Rep. 2024 Oct 17;18(1):479. doi: 10.1186/s13256-024-04815-6.

Abstract

Introduction: Cetuximab, used to treat head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and metastatic colorectal cancer, can cause severe infusion reactions.

Case presentation: We report an 87-year-old East Asian woman with stage IV ileocecal signet ring cell carcinoma who experienced severe allergic reactions to cetuximab despite pre-treatment. A dose escalation method, involving weekly incremental doses with comprehensive pre-treatment and close monitoring, was employed, successfully reducing allergic reactions and allowing safe administration.

Conclusion: This approach demonstrates a viable alternative for patients with hypersensitivity to cetuximab, warranting further research for personalized treatment optimization.

Keywords: Case report; Cetuximab; Desensitization; Dose escalation; Hypersensitivity; Infusion reaction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological* / administration & dosage
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological* / therapeutic use
  • Carcinoma, Signet Ring Cell / drug therapy
  • Carcinoma, Signet Ring Cell / pathology
  • Cecal Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Cecal Neoplasms / pathology
  • Cetuximab* / administration & dosage
  • Cetuximab* / therapeutic use
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / etiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Cetuximab
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological