Optimizing Treatment De-Escalation in Head and Neck Cancer: Current and Future Perspectives.

ABSTRACT: Treatment of locoregionally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma involves a multidisciplinary approach that combines surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic therapy. These curative strategies are associated with significant acute and long-term toxicities. With the emergence of human papillomavirus (HPV) as an etiologic factor associated primarily with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, higher cure rates juxtaposed with substantial treatment-related morbidity and mortality has led to interest in de-escalated therapeutic strategies, with the goal of optimizing oncologic outcomes while reducing treatment-related toxicity. Currently explored strategies include replacing, reducing, or omitting cytotoxic chemotherapy; reducing dose or volume of radiotherapy; and incorporation of less-i

SUBMITTER: Rosenberg AJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7794179 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature