Are anti-vitamin K drugs contraindicated with cetuximab during head-and-neck cancer concomitant radiotherapy?

Acta Clin Belg. 2013 May-Jun;68(3):237-9. doi: 10.2143/ACB.3305.

Abstract

Two cases of severe skin reactions to cetuximab and concomitant radiation therapy are reported in patients treated for locally advanced head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma and concurrently treated with an antivitamin K drug for cardiovascular diseases. The role of vitamin K in the epidermal growth factor/epidermal growth factor receptor pathway is discussed. A plea for a specific registry is entered.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • 4-Hydroxycoumarins*
  • Aged
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / drug therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / radiotherapy*
  • Cetuximab
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Contraindications
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Humans
  • Indenes*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Vitamin K / antagonists & inhibitors*

Substances

  • 4-Hydroxycoumarins
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Indenes
  • antivitamins K
  • Vitamin K
  • Cetuximab