There is currently a clinical trial using �Cetuximab (Erbitux) in Treating Patients With Precancerous Lesions of the Upper Aerodigestive Tract� being conducted through various hospitals in the United States and Canada.

I was first treated for SCC of the lateral tongue in 2005 and had a recurrence a year ago (see my signature for details). I developed an ulcer/sore spot in the same general area 2 months ago and had a biopsy this week. The biopsy showed moderate dysplasia. While not cancer yet, my doctor feels considering my past history, it will very likely turn into cancer at some point (and I agree with him).

My doctor gave me three options: 1) watchful waiting; 2) surgery; or 3) a clinical trial. I�m considering the clinical trial or surgery � watchful waiting is just too stressful for me!

According to the information I received so far, cetuximab, which is a monoclonal antibodies, can block abnormal cell growth in different ways. Some block the ability of abnormal cells to grow and spread, and others find abnormal cells and help kill them or carry cell-killing substances to them. Cetuximab has a low risk toxicity profile and is effective in invasive head and neck cancer. The most likely side-effects include a skin rash, fatigue and fever. It would require weekly trips to Baltimore for 8 weeks (that�s the part I don�t like since it is a 3 hour drive).

I�m considering joining the clinical trial in hopes that it will work on me and reduce or kill the abnormal cells, thus minimizing the amount of tongue tissue I will ultimately loose with surgery.

Has anyone participated in this clinical trial? If so, what did you experience? What additional questions should I ask?

Thanks for your input!