Anti-
epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)
antibodies and anti-
programmed cell death 1 protein (PD-1)
antibodies have been used separately to treat metastatic cutaneous
squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). While two anti-EGFR
antibodies have similar clinical activity,
cetuximab is administered weekly, whereas
panitumumab is administered every two weeks. This report details findings using
panitumumab in combination with anti-PD-1 antibody in patients with relapsed refractory cSCC. Three consecutive patients with poor performance status and rapidly progressive recurrent cutaneous
squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) of the face or scalp signed informed consent to receive an anti-PD-1 antibody with the option to add
panitumumab were there inadequate response. After 2, 5, and 7 cycles of anti-PD-1 antibody treatment, respectively,
panitumumab was added and the combination was continued for 27, 7, and 5 cycles, respectively.
Fatigue,
rash, and hypomagnesemia were reported, consistent with expectations for either agent alone. All three patients achieved durable complete response. The favorable clinical outcomes support further evaluation of the combination of anti-PD1 and anti-EGFR
antibodies to control refractory cSCC of the face or scalp. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(8):901-904. doi:10.36849/JDD.6175.