Nimotuzumab combined with radiotherapy reduces primary tumor and nodal volume in advanced undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Abstract Aim: A high expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is found in most human epithelial tumors, including nasopharyngeal carcinomas (NPC). The overexpression of EGFR has been shown to play an influential role in tumorigenesis and the progression of malignant tumors. Therefore, blocking EGFR might be a potential targeted treatment for NPC. Nimotuzumab is an anti‐EGFR monoclonal antibody that exhibits remarkable anti‐proliferative, anti‐angiogenic, and pro‐apoptotic effects. Methods: Here we report five patients with loco‐regionally advanced NPC, treated with nimotuzumab 100 mg i.v./week for 8 weeks in combination with radiotherapy in a total dose of 70–74 Gy. Results: A computed tomography evaluation of all five patients showed that the primary tumor volume was reduced, ranging from 64.1 to 98% and the nodal volume was reduced by 90.7–100%. No severe adverse events related to nimotuzumab were observed. Conclusion: The use of nimotuzumab in combination with radiotherapy was potentially beneficial and safe for patients with advanced NPC.