Cells throughout the body make proteins called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). These receptors live on the surface of cells and act like antennas, receiving messages about how to help the cells grow, divide, and survive. The receptors are part of the HER family receptors, which are numbered and talk to one another. For example, there is HER1 (which is EGFR), HER2, HER3, and HER4.
There is a large concentration of EGFR proteins in skin and hair cells. (This is why several of the drugs, called anti-EGFR, come with side effects affecting the skin.)
EGFR plays a star role in cancer cell growth and division. Several therapies have been created to block this protein, with the hope of shutting down the pathway where the cancer is thriving.
A set of drugs called “monoclonal antibodies” serve as a plug on the EGFR receptors on a cancer cell’s surface. Drugs called "inhibitors" get inside cancer cells and block the signals telling cancer to grow.
Colon and rectal cancer with RAS wild-type (in advanced, specific situations)
This treatment is more effective in left-sided colorectal cancers.
Pancreatic cancer in advanced, specific situations)
Several clinical trials are happening for patients of other cancer types, exploring the impact of anti-EGFR medications and combining them with other drugs.
Each treatment plan depends on your stage, line of treatment, surgical or additional treatment options, and your overall health.
Ask your doctor how your biomarker test results are informing your treatment plan and if you qualify for any clinical trials.
