Shawn, from what I have read about cetuximab I think you should go for it. It is the best known way to improve your odds. Having said that -- report anything funny once the infusion starts. Immediately. The staff should be fully prepared for allergic reactions but maybe drop a comment about this drug causing severe reactions and is the stuff to treat reactions close at hand?

I think the staff at our hospital outpatient clinic was as prepared as can be expected for something that rarely happens. I am in no way critical of their response. I think my husband reported feeling itchy and short of breath immediately but this event hit like a bomb. I am not anti-cetuximab but I have read that there is a test to see who is at higher risk of having an allergic reaction, who has a particular antibody that may set it off, but it is not widely used.

This falls into the category of "stuff happens". But beware and be prepared.

Your words are not meaningless. Your thoughts are appreciated. Thank you and all the best. Laura