Amgen release new Stepp trail results

Amgen has announced updated results from the Stepp (Skin Toxicity Evaluation Protocol with Panitumab) trial.

Stepp is the first prospective study to examine differences between preemptive and reactive treatment for skin toxicities in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) who are being administered epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) therapy.

Analysis revealed preemptive treatment reduced the occurrence of grade two and greater skin toxicities by over 50 per cent without patients incurring additional side effects in comparison to reactive skin treatment.

Skin toxicity is one of the most frequently experienced side effects of EGFr inhibitors such as Vectibix (pantitumumab), according to Amgen.

David Change from Amgen said the results of the trail showing that skin toxicity may be controlled by a relatively simple preemptive treatment represent a significant advancement.

Meanwhile, Amgen has honoured 32 teachers in the US, Puerto Rico and Canada with the 2008 annual Award for Science Teaching Excellence.