Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-2 positive metastatic salivary duct carcinoma with remarkable response to targeted therapy: a case report and therapeutic implications

Anti-Cancer Drugs 2026

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Authors: Clara Rodrigo Juan, Carla Climent Vicente, Francisco Xavier Avilés Jurado, Noemí Bartolomé Cerdà, Joan Lop Gros, Manuel Mazariegos Rubí
DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000001814
Cited by: 1
References: 10

Abstract

Salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) is a rare and highly aggressive malignancy that frequently overexpresses Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2). Despite the increasing recognition of HER2-targeted strategies, evidence remains limited and largely derived from small trials and case series. We report the case of a middle-aged man with HER2-positive metastatic SDC who achieved near-complete pathologic and radiological response to trastuzumab and docetaxel, enabling surgical resection for locoregional control. This case highlights the role of anti-HER2 therapy as a first-line strategy in SDC and underscores the importance of individualized management plans integrating systemic treatment and locoregional measures.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Salivary Gland Tumors Diagnosis and Treatment Ear and Head Tumors Head and Neck Surgical Oncology

Publication details

Journal / source
Anti-Cancer Drugs
Publisher
Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Volume
37
Issue
9
Pages
578–581
Publication date
22 January 2026
Language
EN