New Antibody Treats Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Head and neck cancers typically occur in smokers and for years has required extensive surgery with lots of disfigurement to have much of an attempt for a cure.

But recently, there is a new type of monoclonal antibody (Erbitux, ImClone Systems Inc. and Bristol-Myers Squibb Company) that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of these types of cancers.

This antibody inhibits the function of a special molecular protein called epidermal growth factor receptor that has been tied to tumor growth.

With the FDA approval, the antibody can be used in combination with radiation therapy for the treatment of this type of head and neck cancer. It could help minimize the amount of disfigurement that many of these patients accept for the possibility of a cure.

Forecast for FLOYDS KNOBS, IN (on a scale of 1-12):

Today's allergy levels:
Wednesday - 6.8/Medium

Today's predominant pollen:
Grass, Mulberry and Hickory/Pecan.