Routine long-term follow-up in patients treated with curative intent for squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx, pharynx, and oral cavity. Does it make sense?

Imaging and Biomarker Surveillance for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and American Radium Society Appropriate Use Criteria Statement

Surveillance for survivors of head and neck cancer (HNC) is focused on early detection of recurrent or second primary malignancies. After initial restaging confirms disease-free status, the use of surveillance imaging for asymptomatic patients with HNC is controversial. Our objective was to comprehensively review literature pertaining to imaging and biomarker surveillance of asymptomatic patients treated for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and to convene a multidisciplinary expert panel to provide appropriate use criteria for surveillance in representative clinical scenarios. The evidence base for the appropriate use criteria was gathered through a librarian-mediated search of literature published from 1990 to 2022 focused on surveillance imaging and circulating tumor-specific DNA for nonmetastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma using MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The systematic review was reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Using the modified Delphi process, the expert panel voted on appropriate use criteria, providing recommendations for appropriate use of surveillance imaging and human papillomavirus (HPV) circulating tumor DNA. Of 5178 studies identified, 80 met inclusion criteria (5 meta-analyses/systematic reviews, 1 randomized control trial, 1 post hoc analysis, 25 prospective, and 48 retrospective cohort studies [with ≥50 patients]), reporting on 27,525 patients. No large, randomized, prospective trials examined whether asymptomatic patients who receive surveillance imaging or HPV circulating tumor DNA monitoring benefit from earlier detection of recurrence or second primary tumors in terms of disease-specific or quality-of-life outcomes. In the absence of prospective data, surveillance imaging for HNC survivors should rely on individualized recurrence-risk assessment accounting for initial disease staging, HPV disease status, and tobacco use history. There is an emerging surveillance role for circulating tumor biomarkers.

Value of Adherence to Posttreatment Follow-Up Guidelines for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

The utility of intensive posttreatment surveillance of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has been debated. The objective is to investigate adherence to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) posttreatment follow-up guidelines and assess the association with recurrence and survival.

METHODS

A total of 452 patients diagnosed with HNSCC at an academic medical center in a socioeconomically disadvantaged, urban setting were categorized by adherence to NCCN follow-up guidelines. Survival analyses were conducted to study the association between adherence and the 5-year overall survival and disease-specific survival in the entire cohort and subset of patients with documented recurrence.

RESULTS

We found that 23.5% of patients were adherent to NCCN follow-up guidelines in the first year after treatment, and 15.9% were adherent over 5 years. Adherence in the first year was significantly associated with 5-year overall survival (HR 0.634; 95% CI 0.443-0.906; p = 0.0124) and disease-specific survival (HR 0.556; 95% CI 0.312-0.992; p = 0.0470), but consistent adherence over 5 years did not show a significant association. Among the 21.7% of the cohort with recurrence, adherence was not associated with early-stage recurrence (AJCC stage I/II). In this subset, first year adherence was associated with improved disease-specific but not overall survival, and adherence over 5 years was not associated with survival.

CONCLUSION

Adherence to NCCN follow-up guidelines in the first year after treatment was associated with a better chance of 5-year overall and disease-specific survival, but this significant association was not observed among those who demonstrated consistent adherence over 5 years.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 134:708-716, 2024.

PET/CT Imaging in Treatment Planning and Surveillance of Sinonasal Neoplasms

Sinonasal cancers are uncommon malignancies with a generally unfavorable prognosis, often presenting at an advanced stage. Their high rate of recurrence supports close imaging surveillance and the utilization of functional imaging techniques. Whole-body 18F-FDG PET/CT has very high sensitivity for the diagnosis of sinonasal malignancies and can also be used as a "metabolic biopsy" in the characterization of some of the more common subgroups of these tumors, though due to overlap in uptake, histological confirmation is still needed. For certain tumor types, radiotracers, such as 11C-choline, and radiolabeled somatostatin analogs, including 68Ga-DOTATATE/DOTATOC, have proven useful in treatment planning and surveillance. Although serial scans for posttreatment surveillance allow the detection of subclinical lesions, the optimal schedule and efficacy in terms of survival are yet to be determined. Pitfalls of 18F-FDG, such as post-surgical and post-radiotherapy crusting and inflammation, may cause false-positive hypermetabolism in the absence of relapse.

The timing and methods for detection of recurrence in patients with head and neck cancer

BACKGROUND

Early detection of head and neck cancer recurrence after curative treatment is crucial for effective salvage treatment.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to examine the timing and method that allowed early detection of recurrence in each primary and recurrence site.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We enrolled 440 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, or larynx who underwent curative treatment focusing on surgery at our hospital between 2009 and 2018. We examined the timing and diagnostic method (clinical examination, patient symptoms, or imaging examination) for HNSCC recurrence according to the primary and recurrence sites.

RESULTS

Recurrence was observed in 133 patients. In all primary sites, regional recurrence occurred significantly earlier than local and distant recurrences. Local recurrence occurred later in the larynx than in other primary sites. Furthermore, the clinical examination had a higher ratio of detection of local recurrence in the larynx than in the other primary site. Regardless of the primary site, more than half of the regional recurrences and most of the distant recurrences were detected by imaging examination.

CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE

Imaging examination is preferable for achieving early detection of regional and distant recurrences.

Personalizing Surveillance in Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) encompasses a spectrum of heterogeneous diseases originating in the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx. Within the United States, head and neck cancer (HNC) accounts for 66,470 new cases, or 3% of all malignancies, annually.¹ The incidence of HNC is rising, largely driven by increases in oropharyngeal cancer.^2-4 Recent molecular and clinical advancements, particularly with regard to molecular and tumor biology, reflect the heterogeneity of the subsites contained within the head and neck. Despite this, existing guidelines for post-treatment surveillance remain broad without much consideration given to different anatomic subsites and etiologic factors (such as human papillomavirus [HPV] status or tobacco exposure).⁵ Surveillance incorporating the physical examination, imaging, and emerging molecular biomarkers is an essential part of care for patients treated for HNC and allows for the detection of locoregional recurrence, distant metastases, and second primary malignancies aiming for better functional and survival outcomes. Additionally, it allows for evaluation and management of post-treatment complications.

Assessment of conditions leading to lost-to-follow-up of head and neck cancer patients

PURPOSE

Head and neck cancer patients require close clinical follow up to monitor and address sequelae of treatment and for adequate cancer surveillance. The goal of this study is to determine barriers and risk factors for head and neck cancer patients who are lost-to-follow-up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A chart review of the Head and Neck Cancer Registry was performed to identify patients who were lost-to-follow-up (LTF). LTF was defined as missing two consecutive appointments as recommended by their oncologic surgeon. Those identified as LTF were contacted via email and phone to complete a 16-question survey addressing possible barriers to follow up.

RESULTS

Of the 353 patients reviewed, 53 met the criteria for LTF (15%). Forty-eight participants were contacted, and 23 surveys were completed (48%). Of the 23 patients that responded, 22% reported difficulty scheduling an appointment, 30% had transportation barriers, 22% had personal or work obligations that prevented follow up, 17% did not follow up because they "felt better," and 39% were following up with an otolaryngologist or oncologist closer to home. Only three participants (13%) were aware of the recommended 5-year surveillance period.

CONCLUSION

Head and neck cancer patients have a variety of reasons they are lost to follow-up. Understanding these barriers is critical to creating a patient-centered model that balances both clinical surveillance needs and reasonable expectations for patients. Improvements can be made to educate patients on the recommended length of follow-up and its importance.

Clinicians' Views of Patient-initiated Follow-up in Head and Neck Cancer: a Qualitative Study to Inform the PETNECK2 Trial

AIMS

Current follow-up for head and neck cancer (HNC) is ineffective, expensive and fails to address patients' needs. The PETNECK2 trial will compare a new model of patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU) with routine scheduled follow-up. This article reports UK clinicians' views about HNC follow-up and PIFU, to inform the trial design.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Online focus groups with surgeons (ear, nose and throat/maxillofacial), oncologists, clinical nurse specialists and allied health professionals. Clinicians were recruited from professional bodies, mailing lists and personal contacts. Focus groups explored views on current follow-up and acceptability of the proposed PIFU intervention and randomised controlled trial design (presented by the study co-chief investigator), preferences, margins of equipoise, potential organisational barriers and thoughts about the content and format of PIFU. Data were interpreted using inductive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Eight focus groups with 34 clinicians were conducted. Clinicians highlighted already known limitations with HNC follow-up - lack of flexibility to address the wide-ranging needs of HNC patients, expense and lack of evidence - and agreed that follow-up needs to change. They were enthusiastic about the PETNECK2 trial to develop and evaluate PIFU but had concerns that PIFU may not suit disengaged patients and may aggravate patient anxiety/fear of recurrence and delay detection of recurrence. Anticipated issues with implementation included ensuring a reliable route back to clinic and workload burden on nurses and allied health professionals.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians supported the evaluation of PIFU but voiced concerns about barriers to help-seeking. An emphasis on patient engagement, psychosocial issues, symptom reporting and reliable, quick routes back to clinic will be important. Certain patient groups may be less suited to PIFU, which will be evaluated in the trial. Early, meaningful, ongoing engagement with clinical teams and managers around the trial rationale and recruitment process will be important to discourage selective recruitment and address risk-averse behaviour and potential workload burden.

Routine follow-up care for head and neck cancer after curative treatment: A 3-year experience of measuring patients' self-reported needs, preferences, quality of life and attitudes towards follow-up

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and describe attitudes, quality of life (Qol), needs and preferences of patients with head and neck cancer after 3 years of follow-up care.

METHODS

This is an exploratory prospective study of recurrence-free patients. Survey results were compared between 1-, 2- and 3-year post-treatment and by disease characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 116 patients were included with 46% oropharyngeal cancer, 66% early stage disease and 41% having had surgery. After 3 years, most patients reported good to excellent health (88%), however expressed uncertainty regarding recurrence (66%), multiple needs (information on prognosis 91%, long-term sequalae 72%) and wanted to continue with follow-up (96%). Few changes were observed over time, with exceptions. Patients with more advanced disease, oral cancer or who had surgery experienced declining Qol (p < 0.050). Women experienced improvements in Qol domains (pain p = 0.028, speech p = 0.009) over time. Attitudes towards communication with oncologists demonstrated improved patient comfort (p = 0.044) over the 3 years; however, patients' beliefs about their prognosis did not (71% vs. 73% vs. 77% did not believe they were cured, p = 0.581).

CONCLUSION

Although patients' needs, preferences and attitudes towards follow-up did not change drastically, important needs persist. This work supports identifying individual patient needs and the challenges in addressing prognostic expectations.

[Oncologic follow-up in head and neck cancer patients]

Despite medical treatment according to evidence-based guidelines, approximately 25-30% of all head and neck tumor patients suffer a disease relapse, depending on tumor stage and entity. The primary goal of systematic follow-up examinations is early detection and treatment of recurrent tumors or metachronous secondary tumors, but it also serves to rule out distant metastasis. Secondary goals are the diagnosis and management of treatment-associated side effects to optimize quality of life. Because of an especially high relapse risk in the first 2 years after treatment, close-knit clinical controls are recommended, e.g., quarterly. Later on, the clinical control interval can be extended to 6 months. Cross-sectional diagnostic imaging of the primary tumor region is performed annually and when screening for possible distant metastases, or upon clinical suspicion of recurrence. After 5 years without tumor recurrence, the structured clinical follow-up is usually completed.

Factors associated with loss to follow-up after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer

OBJECTIVES

Head and neck cancer (HNC) patients are at high risk for late occurring radiation-related morbidity and recurrence, necessitating close long-term medical surveillance. This study identified factors associated with becoming lost to follow-up (LTFU) at a comprehensive cancer center.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients were drawn from survivors who received radiation for HNC at a single institution between 2001 and 2018. LTFU was defined as living patients without a clinical encounter within 2 years of the data query.

RESULTS

In total, 537 patients met the inclusion criteria and 57 (10.6%) were identified as LTFU. Individual comparisons identified time since completing radiation, non-White race and being unmarried as associated with LTFU. Multiple regression identified time since treatment and being unmarried as factors associated with LTFU. A decision tree correctly sorted 89.4% using time, distance, and marital status.

CONCLUSION

Time since radiation, distance to clinic, and being unmarried were factors associated with becoming LTFU.

Less Is More? The Association between Survival and Follow-Up Protocol after Treatment in Oral Cavity Cancer Patients from a Betel Quid-Prevalent Region

The optimal follow-up protocol after treatment of oral cavity cancer patients is still debatable. We aimed to investigate the impact of frequency of different imaging studies and follow-up visits on the survival of oral cavity cancer patients. The current study retrospectively reviewed oral cavity cancer patients who underwent surgical intervention in our hospital. Basic demographic data, tumor-related features, treatment modalities, imaging studies, and clinic visits were recorded. Cox proportional hazard model was used to examine the influence of variables on the survival of oral cavity cancer patients. In total, 741 patients with newly diagnosed oral cavity cancer were included in the final analysis. Overall, the frequency of imaging studies was not associated with survival in the multivariate analysis, except PET scan (hazard ratio [HR]: 5.30, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.57–7.86). However, in late-stage and elder patients, frequent head and neck CT/MRI scan was associated with a better prognosis (HR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.36–0.84; HR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.30–0.91, respectively). In conclusion, precision medicine is a global trend nowadays. Different subgroups may need different follow-up protocols. Further prospective study is warranted to clarify the relationship between frequency of image studies and survival of oral cavity cancer patients.

Feasibility of a truncated surveillance schedule for patients following curative intent treatment for carcinoma of the oral cavity

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a regular follow-up schedule with examination by clinicians results in a better detection rate of disease recurrence and eventual better clinical outcomes when compared to patients who present with symptoms to the clinic and are subsequently detected to have a recurrence of oral squamous cell carcinoma. Retrospective data from 642 patients who underwent treatment for oral squamous cell carcinoma at a tertiary level cancer centre were analysed. Of the 642 patients, 197 had recurrences of which 108 were detected on regular follow-up and 87 were detected in patients presenting out of schedule with symptoms; two patients were detected to have recurrence at another centre, but their mode of detection could not be ascertained. There was no difference in the loco-regional recurrence-free survival or disease-free survival between the two groups. A strict follow-up schedule in the first year followed by a more flexible symptom-based schedule in the subsequent years, with supplementation of imaging if clinically indicated, should be an adequate surveillance plan for oral cancer patients.

History of dysplasia and primary site associated with recurrence in T1N0 oral squamous cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Recurrent disease occurs in a significant proportion of early-stage oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) despite removal of the entire tumor with clear surgical margins. Our study sought to identify clinicopathologic factors that increase the risk of locoregional recurrence in T1N0 OSCC.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted an observational retrospective analysis of 65 cases of T1N0 OSCC over a period of 13 years. For each case, we examined the clinical presentation, histopathologic appearance, and treatment characteristics of interest to evaluate the association between these variables and locoregional recurrence.

RESULTS

The 5-year and 10-year locoregional recurrence rates were 29.2% and 33.8%, respectively. Individuals with prior oral dysplasia had significantly higher odds for locoregional recurrence (P < .01) and reduced 5-year disease-free survival rates (P < .01). OSCC of the tongue and floor of the mouth had lower recurrence odds than carcinomas of the gingiva, buccal mucosa, and palate (P < .05). Histologic grade (P = .80), depth of invasion (P = .82), and elective neck dissection (P = .80) did not appear to influence locoregional recurrence for T1N0 tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the morbidity and mortality associated with OSCC, understanding of the clinicopathologic factors associated with recurrent disease may lead to improved treatment and follow-up protocols for a subset of early-stage patients.

Impact of provider type and number of providers on surveillance testing among survivors of head and neck cancers

BACKGROUND

Guidelines for follow-up after head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment recommend frequent clinical examinations and surveillance testing. Here, the authors describe real-world follow-up care for HNC survivors and variations in surveillance testing.

METHODS

Using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)-Medicare data, this study examined a population-based cohort of HNC survivors between 2001 and 2011 Usage of cross-sectional head and neck imaging (CHNI), chest imaging (CI), positron emission tomography (PET), fiberoptic nasopharyngolaryngoscopy (FNPL), and, in irradiated patients, thyroid function testing (TFT) was captured over 2 consecutive surveillance years. Multivariate modeling with logistic regression analyses was used to assess variations by clinical factors, nonclinical factors, number and types of providers seen and their evolution over time.

RESULTS

Among 13,836 HNC survivors, the majority saw a medical, radiation, or surgical oncologist and a primary care provider (PCP; 81.7%) in their first year of surveillance. However, only 58.1% underwent either PET or CHNI, 47.8% underwent CHNI, 64.1% underwent CI, 32.5% underwent PET scans, 55.0% underwent FNPL, and 55.9% underwent TFT. In multivariate analyses, patients who followed up with more providers and those who followed up with both a PCP and an oncologist were more likely to undergo surveillance testing (P < .007). However, adjusting for providers seen did not explain the variations in surveillance testing rates based on age, race, education, income level, and place of residence. Over time, there was a gradual increase in the use of PET scans and TFT during surveillance years.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large SEER-Medicare data study, only half of HNC survivors received the recommended testing, and greater compliance was seen in those who followed up with both an oncologist and a PCP. More attention is needed to minimize variations in surveillance testing across sociodemographic groups.

Outcomes of a Telephone-Based Questionnaire for Follow-up of Patients Who Have Completed Curative-Intent Treatment for Oral Cancers

Importance

Follow-up assessment of patients who had treatment for head and neck cancer is critical and an important part of the overall treatment program. During each visit to the hospital, patients are evaluated by a physician and may undergo additional tests. Because it has been observed that the symptoms mentioned by patients often guide the treating clinicians in identifying cancer recurrence, an appropriately constructed questionnaire can help clinicians determine which patients need further testing as a result of a recurrence and which patients can continue to be monitored remotely.

Objective

To evaluate the role of a symptom-based telephone questionnaire in detecting recurrences in patients with radically treated oral cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective diagnostic cohort study was conducted from October 1, 2018, to February 28, 2019. This study took place at Tata Memorial Centre, an apex referral cancer center in India. A total of 615 consecutive patients with oral cancer were screened, of whom 400 patients consented to be a part of the study. After completion of curative treatment, these patients were followed up for 2 months to 2 years. We excluded patients younger than 18 years or older than 80 years, those with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group status greater than 2, and those who had already been diagnosed with recurrent disease.

Interventions/Exposures

The patients were contacted 2 weeks before their clinic appointment, and a telephone interview was conducted using a predefined questionnaire. Based on patients' responses to these questions, their disease status was estimated. Subsequently, during the actual follow-up visit, a trained head and neck surgeon, who was blinded to the questionnaire result, examined them.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The sensitivity and specificity of the telephone questionnaire were calculated by comparing its results with those of the trained head and neck surgeon after the clinical evaluation.

Results

Of the 615 patients screened, 400 consented to be part of the study. Participants had a median (interquartile range) age of 49 (41-56) years, and 334 (83.5%) were men. Recurrence was noted in 20 patients (5.0%). The telephone-based questionnaire was found to have sensitivity of 90.0%, specificity of 74.2%, positive predictive value of 15.5%, and negative predictive value of 99.3%. Clinical examination values were 100.0%, 92.9%, 42.5%, and 100.0%, respectively. A total of 124 patients (31.0%) said that they would prefer such a telephone follow-up compared with an actual physical follow-up visit.

Conclusions and Relevance

This diagnostic cohort study found that a symptom-based telephone questionnaire had good sensitivity and negative predictive value for detecting recurrences in patients with oral cancer on follow-up evaluation after completion of definitive treatment.

Posttreatment Imaging in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer without Clinical Evidence of Recurrence: Should Surveillance Imaging Extend Beyond 6 Months?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Early detection of residual or recurrent disease is important for effective salvage treatment in patients with head and neck cancer. Current National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines do not recommend standard surveillance imaging beyond 6 months unless there are worrisome signs or symptoms on clinical examination and offer vague guidelines for imaging of high-risk patients beyond that timeframe. Our goal was to evaluate the frequency of clinically occult recurrence in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma with positive imaging findings (Neck Imaging Reporting and Data Systems scores of 2-4), especially after 6 months.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This institutional review board-approved, retrospective data base search queried neck CT reports with Neck Imaging Reporting and Data Systems scores of 2-4 from June 2014 to March 2018. The electronic medical records were reviewed to determine outcomes of clinical and radiologic follow-up, including symptoms, physical examination findings, pathologic correlation, and clinical notes within 3 months of imaging.

RESULTS

A total of 255 cases, all with Neck Imaging Reporting and Data Systems scores of 2 or 3, met the inclusion criteria. Fifty-nine patients (23%) demonstrated recurrence (45 biopsy-proven, 14 based on clinical and imaging progression), and 21 patients (36%) had clinically occult recurrence (ie, no clinical evidence of disease at the time of the imaging examination). The median overall time to radiologically detected, clinically occult recurrence was 11.4 months from treatment completion.

CONCLUSIONS

Imaging surveillance beyond the first posttreatment baseline study was critical for detecting clinically occult recurrent disease in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. More than one-third of all recurrences were seen in patients without clinical evidence of disease; and 81% of clinically occult recurrences occurred beyond 6 months.

Evaluation for noncompliance of recall in patients reporting to oral pathology department: Longitudinal study of 5 years

Background:

Regardless of the form of treatment, long-term follow-up of the patient is an absolute necessity. This study aimed to follow surgically treated patients visiting our department of oral pathology over 5 years (January 2011–December 2015) to monitor recurrence of the condition, patient compliance and reasons for noncompliance.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted half-yearly recall for patients visiting our department from January 2011 to December 2015. Patients were recalled through the use of letters, telephonic reminders and e-mails.

Results:

The study included 171 recalled patients of whom, 42 (24.56%) reported for follow-up, while the remaining 129 (75.43%) did not report for follow-up. Of the 42 reporting patients, 26 (61.90%) reported once, 10 (23.81%) twice and 6 (14.28%) three times. Recurrence of the condition was reported in two cases. The reasons for noncompliance included: financial constraints (22.48%), casual attitude (37.20%), reported to nearby hospitals (5.42%) and lack of time (11.62%). Some patients could not be sent reminder letters due to incomplete address (7.75%), the wrong pin code (6.97%), change of address (4.65%), locked house (3.10%) and death of the patient (0.77%).

Conclusion:

This study highlights patient recall appointment noncompliance, ascribing various reasons to the patient's attrition rate for recall appointments. Probable solutions for increasing the compliance for recall need to be addressed, and further research should be conducted to evaluate these solutions.

Follow-Up of Head and Neck Cancer Survivors: Tipping the Balance of Intensity

The traditional concept of post-treatment surveillance in head and neck cancer patients relies on examinations directed at early detection of disease recurrence and/or second primary tumors. They are usually provided by ear, nose and throat specialists with complementary input from radiation oncologists and medical oncologists. Emerging evidence underscores the importance of monitoring and effective management of late adverse events. One of the major drawbacks is a lack of prospective controlled data. As a result, local institutional policies differ, and practice recommendations are subject to continuing debate. Due to the economic burden and impact on emotional comfort of patients, intensity and content of follow-up visits are a particularly conflicting topic. According to the current evidence-based medicine, follow-up of head and neck cancer patients does not prolong survival but can improve quality of life. Therefore, an approach giving priority to a multidisciplinary care involving a speech and swallowing expert, dietician, dentist, and psychologist may indeed be more relevant. Moreover, on a case-by-case basis, some patients need more frequent consultations supplemented by imaging modalities. Human papillomavirus positive oropharyngeal cancer tends to develop late failures at distant sites, and asymptomatic oligometastatic disease, especially in the lungs, can be successfully salvaged by local ablation, either surgically or by radiation. The deep structures of the skull base related to the nasopharynx are inaccessible to routine clinical examination, advocating periodic imaging supplemented by nasofibroscopy as indicated. Anamnesis of heavy smoking justifies annual low-dose computed tomography screening of the thorax and intensive smoking cessation counseling. Finally, some cancer survivors feel more comfortable with regular imaging, and their voice should be taken into consideration. Future development of surveillance strategies will depend on several variables including identification of reliable predictive factors to select those who could derive the most benefit from follow-up visits, the availability of long-term follow-up data, the results of the first randomized trials, resource allocation patterns, infrastructure density, and the therapeutic landscape of locally advanced and recurrent and/or metastatic disease, which is rapidly changing with the advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors and better utilization of local approaches.

Upper aerodigestive tract carcinoma: Development of a (epi)genomic predictive model for recurrence and metastasis

Despite the increased molecular knowledge and the diagnostic and therapeutic improvements, the survival of patients with upper aerodigestive tract carcinoma remains poor. The identification of early diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and the development of molecular models to distinguish patients that will recur and/or develop metastasis after treatment as well as to benefit with target therapies can be important to decrease mortality, improve survival rates and improve the quality of life of these patients. The current study analyzed 21 upper aerodigestive tract carcinomas through array comparative genomic hybridization and methylation-specific multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification techniques. A number of chromosomal regions and genes were observed with copy number alterations and methylation. A predictive (epi)genomic model that comprises the 3p chromosomal region and WT1, VHL and THBS1 genes was built, highlighting a molecular signature with possible clinical use. The current study may aid in the development of a more individualized patient management and targeted drug design. The power of this genomic and epigenetic model to predict the recurrence and metastasis development should be evaluated and validated in future larger cohort study.

Surveillance of Patients with Head and Neck Cancer with an Intensive Clinical and Radiologic Follow-up

OBJECTIVE

There is no consensus on the follow-up modalities in patients with head and neck cancer. This study aims to describe the pattern and survival outcomes of recurrences/second primary cancers in patients undergoing an intensive radiologic and clinical follow-up.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

SETTING

Single academic tertiary care center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

All patients with stage III-IV head and neck cancer treated with chemoradiotherapy at our institution between 1998 and 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Persistent/recurrent disease within 6 months since the curative treatment and second primary cancers outside the upper aerodigestive tract were excluded. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics. Surveillance was planned every 3 months in the first year, then with increasing intervals till the fifth year.

RESULTS

A total of 326 patients were included. Out of all detected cancer recurrences (n = 106, 32%), 38 (36%) were locoregional, 44 (41%) were distant, and 24 (23%) were second primary cancers. Approximately 70% of recurrences were clinically and/or radiologically discovered, while 30% were diagnosed due to the patients' symptoms. Of all clinically and/or radiologically discovered recurrences/second primary cancers (n = 74), 26 (35%) were curatively treated, with respect to 9 of the 32 (28%) diagnosed by symptoms. Median overall survival of recurrent curable cases did not significantly differ according to the detection modality (89 months by clinical/radiologic examination vs 85 by symptoms).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical and radiologic follow-up identified more recurrences/second primary cancers than the symptom-driven monitoring, but the curability of cancer recurrence was similar regardless of detection modality. Prospective trials are needed to define the most effective follow-up strategy in head and neck cancer.

Critical review of the follow-up protocol for head and neck cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

Head and neck cancer follow-up length, interval and content are controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the follow-up protocol after curative treatment in head and neck cancer patients.

METHOD

Clinical data of 456 patients with new malignancy of the head and neck from a tertiary care centre district from 1999 to 2008 were analysed. Time from treatment, symptoms and second-line treatment outcomes of patients with recurrent disease were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 94 (22 per cent) patients relapsed during the 5-year follow-up period; 90 per cent of recurrences were found within 3 years. Fifty-six per cent of the patients had subjective symptoms indicating a recurrence of the tumour. All recurrent tumours found during routine follow-up visits without symptoms were found within 34 months after completion of treatment.

CONCLUSION

Routine follow up after three years is questionable; recurrent disease beyond this point was detected in only 2 per cent of patients. In this study, all late tumour recurrences had symptoms of the disease. Easy access to extra follow-up visits when symptoms occur could cover the need for late follow up.

Value of patient-reported symptoms in the follow up of patients potentially cured of laryngeal carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the significance of patients' ability to recognise symptoms that signify recurrence.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted in Norway of demographic, clinical and follow-up data for patients with laryngeal carcinoma considered free of disease following treatment. The study included clinical data from 732 patients with glottic tumours and 249 patients with supraglottic tumours who were considered cured of disease. Data on the site, time and type of recurrence (symptomatic or asymptomatic) were retrieved.

RESULTS

Recurrence was observed in 127 patients with glottic tumours and 71 with supraglottic tumours. A total of 103 glottic recurrences and 53 supraglottic recurrences were symptomatic. For patients with glottic carcinoma, recurrence detection through symptoms was associated with a favourable post-salvage survival rate compared with asymptomatic recurrences (p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

A patient's ability to self-detect 'red flag' symptoms and self-initiate visits represents a previously ignored prognostic factor, and may rationalise follow up and improve survival.

Recurrence patterns of sinonasal cancers after a 5-year disease-free period

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Sinonasal cancers are rare but have a poor prognosis. Most previous studies of these cancers have focused on 5-year disease-free survival, but recurrences are also known to occur after this period. We examined the post-5-year recurrence patterns in sinonasal cancer patients by histologic type to determine the indicators for extended and close follow-up requirements.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

METHODS

A cohort of 241 sinonasal cancer patients was included. Demographic data, cancer site and stage, pathology and treatment results, and follow-up and survival data were collected.

RESULTS

Of the 241 patients, a complete remission occurred in 163 (72.4%) patients, but 83 (50.9%) of these cases developed recurrence, which occurred beyond the 5-year follow-up period in 19 cases (11.7%). The most common post-5-year recurrences were adenoid cystic carcinoma (six patients, 33.3%), followed by melanoma (three patients, 21.4%), poorly differentiated carcinoma (two patients, 18.2%), squamous cell carcinoma (six patients, 6.7%), and olfactory neuroblastoma (no patients, 0%). Post-5-year local recurrence was highest in adenoid cystic carcinoma (six patients, 33.3%), followed by melanoma (three patients, 21.4%), poorly differentiated carcinoma (two patients, 18.2%), and squamous cell carcinoma (five patients, 5.5%). Post-5-year regional recurrence occurred in one squamous carcinoma patient (1.1%), and distant metastasis was seen in one adenoid cystic carcinoma patient (5.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Sinonasal cancer shows an 11.7% recurrence rate after a 5-year disease-free period. As this recurrence pattern varies by tumor pathology, a specific follow-up plan is needed for each cancer type.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 129:2451-2457, 2019.

Guidelines for the Surgical Management of Oral Cancer: Korean Society of Thyroid-Head and Neck Surgery

Korean Society of Thyroid-Head and Neck Surgery appointed a Task Force to provide guidance on the implementation of a surgical treatment of oral cancer. MEDLINE databases were searched for articles on subjects related to “surgical management of oral cancer” published in English. Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized control trials/controlled clinical trials, and observational studies. The quality of evidence was rated with use RoBANS (Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Nonrandomized Studies) and AMSTAR (A Measurement Tool to Assess the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews). Evidence-based recommendations for practice were ranked according to the American College of Physicians grading system. Additional directives are provided as expert opinions and Delphi questionnaire when insufficient evidence existed. The Committee developed 68 evidence-based recommendations in 34 categories intended to assist clinicians and patients and counselors, and health policy-makers. Proper surgical treatment selection for oral cancer, which is directed by patient- and subsite-specific factors, remains the greatest predictor of successful treatment outcomes. These guidelines are intended for use in conjunction with the individual patient’s treatment goals.

Disparities in adherence to head and neck cancer follow-up guidelines

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we aim to determine the frequency of adherence to National Comprehensive Cancer Network follow-up guidelines in a population of head and neck cancer patients who received curative treatment. We will also assess the impact of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and treatment setting on utilization of follow-up care.

METHODS

This study included patients with biopsy-proven, nonmetastatic oropharyngeal or laryngeal cancer treated with radiotherapy between January 1, 2014, and June 30, 2016, at a safety-net hospital or adjacent private academic hospital. Components of follow-up care analyzed included an appointment with a surgeon or radiation oncologist within 3 months and posttreatment imaging of the primary site within 6 months. Univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted using a logistic regression model to estimate odds ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Two hundred and thirty-four patients were included in this study. Of those, 88.8% received posttreatment imaging of the primary site within 6 months; 88.5% attended a follow-up appointment with a radiation oncologist within 3 months; and 71.1% of patients attended a follow-up appointment with a surgeon within 3 months. On multivariable analysis, private academic hospital treatment versus safety-net hospital treatment was associated with increased utilization of both surgical and radiation oncology follow-up. Non-Hispanic black (NHB) patients, Hispanic patients, and those with a low socioeconomic status were also less likely to receive follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Safety-net hospital treatment, socioeconomic status, Hispanic ethnicity, and NHB race were associated with decreased follow-up service utilization. Quality improvement initiatives are needed to reduce these disparities.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2b Laryngoscope, 129:2303-2308, 2019.

Posttreatment surveillance for sinonasal malignancy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Sinonasal neoplasms have a high rate of recurrence following treatment, and clinicians utilize a variety of surveillance techniques. Generally, surveillance modality and frequency of follow-up are determined by the guidelines for head and neck cancer as a broad category. However, recent studies have demonstrated that a more tailored approach to follow-up may be necessary.

RECENT FINDINGS

Endoscopy has low sensitivity in recurrence detection, especially in the asymptomatic patient. However, it is able to identify superficial recurrences that may be more amenable to repeat resection. Conversely, imaging [computed tomography (CT), MRI, and F-fluorodeoxyglucose-PET/CT] is useful in ruling out disease, but the inflammatory environment of the posttreatment sinonasal cavity leads to a high number of false positives. This is especially notable in PET/CT, which has worse specificity and positive predictive value in sinonasal malignancy than in head and neck malignancy overall, especially in the early posttreatment period. Little data are available on optimal timing and duration of follow-up, but tumor histology and aggressiveness should be considered when choosing a surveillance approach.

SUMMARY

Sinonasal malignancy surveillance strategies may warrant modifications of current protocols used for head and neck malignancy. This is due to a number of factors, including a greater diversity of sinonasal disorder and increased duration of posttreatment sinonasal inflammation. Clinicians should be aware of the performance parameters of commonly used surveillance techniques and adjust follow-up regimens based on this information.

Controversies in Oral and Maxillofacial Oncology

Imaging studies are essential components of tumor diagnosis, staging, assessing tumor response to neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies, and postoperative surveillance on completion of definitive treatment. Treatment of early stage clinically node negative oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma is controversial. Approximately 3% of all head and neck tumors arise within the parotid gland and most often within the superficial lobe, lateral to the facial nerve; about 80% are benign and most are pleomorphic adenoma. In patients with dry eyes failing multiple other treatment modalities and facing ongoing pain and loss of vision, microvascular transplant of the submandibular gland is a viable option.

Variation in routine follow-up care after curative treatment for head-and-neck cancer: a population-based study in Ontario

Background

The actual practices of routine follow-up after curative treatment for head-and-neck cancer are unknown, and existing guidelines are not evidence-based.

Methods

This retrospective population-based study used administrative data to describe 5 years of routine follow-up care in 3975 head-and-neck cancer patients diagnosed between 2007 and 2012 in Ontario.

Results

The mean number of visits per year declined during the follow-up period (from 7.8 to 1.9, p < 0.001). The proportion of patients receiving visits in concordance with guidelines ranged from 80% to 45% depending on the follow-up year. In at least 50% of patients, 1 head, neck, or chest imaging test was performed in the first follow-up year; that proportion subsequently declined (p < 0.001). Factors associated with follow-up practices included comorbidity, tumour site, treatment, geographic region, and physician specialty (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Given current practice variation and the absence of an evidence-based standard, the challenge in identifying a single optimal follow-up strategy might be better addressed with a harmonized approach to providing individualized follow-up care.

Molecular and serologic markers of HPV 16 infection are associated with local recurrence in patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections predict mortality in Taiwanese patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC). To address their prognostic significance for local recurrence (LR), in this retrospective cohort study we investigated different serologic and molecular markers of HPV 16 infection in 85 consecutive patients with primary OCSCC who received standard treatment and had their sera stored before treatment. Resected tumor specimens were examined with PCR-based assays for HPV 16 E6/E7 mRNA expression. Sera were tested with suspension arrays for the presence of HPV-specific antibodies using synthetic L1 and E6 peptides as well as a synthetic E7 protein. HPV 16 E6/E7 mRNA, anti-L1, anti-E6, and anti-E7 antibodies tested positive in 12%, 25%, 38%, and 41% of the study patients, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified pathological T3/T4, E6/E7 mRNA, and anti-E7 antibodies as independent risk factors for LR, whereas anti-E6 antibodies were an independent protective factor. In patients with ≥ 3 (high-risk group), 2 (intermediate-risk), and ≤ 1 (low-risk) independent risk factors (predictors), the 5-year LR rates were 75%, 42%, and 4%, respectively. Results were validated in an independent cohort. Together, our preliminary data indicate that HPV 16 infections as well as low and high serum levels of anti-E6 and anti-E7 antibodies, respectively, can serve as biomarkers of LR in patients with OCSCC, whereas the clinical usefulness of anti-HPV 16 antibodies for risk stratification of newly diagnosed cases deserves further scrutiny.

18FDG PET/CT in Routine Surveillance of Asymptomatic Patients following Treatment of Sinonasal Neoplasms

Objective Sinonasal neoplasms have a high rate of recurrence following treatment, and current guidelines support the use of a variety of surveillance techniques. Recent work demonstrates that performance parameters of surveillance modalities may differ with sinonasal tumors in particular when compared with head and neck tumors overall. This study aims to characterize the value of ¹⁸fluorodeoxyglucose (¹⁸FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) as a screening tool in asymptomatic patients. Study Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania hospital. Methods Records of asymptomatic patients without suspicious endoscopy or suspicious imaging other than PET during the first 3 years following definitive treatment for sinonasal malignancy were screened and analyzed for inclusion in the cohort. Disease recurrence was determined by biopsy following suspicious PET evaluation. Results PET/CT scans (n = 111) were performed for 45 disease-free asymptomatic patients with no evidence of disease on endoscopy, and 6.3% were suspicious and prompted biopsy during this period, revealing 3 cases of disease recurrence. Overall specificity for PET/CT alone was 96.3% (95% CI, 90.7%-99.0%), with a negative predictive value of 99% (95% CI, 94.8%-100%). All recurrences were detected between 7 and 12 months, and all patients with true recurrence diagnosed by PET/CT had extrasinonasal involvement of tumor at the time of surgery. Conclusion We examined performance parameters of ¹⁸FDG PET/CT in asymptomatic patients with no evidence of disease on endoscopy during the posttreatment period for sinonasal malignancy. The ability of PET/CT to detect recurrences that may be missed by structural imaging or endoscopy makes it a valuable tool for clinicians.

FDG-PET/CT in the Postoperative Period: Utility, Expected Findings, Complications, and Pitfalls

FDG-PET/CT as a modality is increasingly used for detection of recurrence and for restaging in patients with clinical suspicion of malignancy, as well as in patients with elevated tumor markers. However, there are many pitfalls in the interpretation of these scans when the studies are performed after some treatment. Some of these are attributed to normal physiological distribution and are compounded when there are inflammatory changes occurring after surgery. The body's inherent response to the surgical insult results in this inflammation. In addition, there are also complications that can happen following surgery, causing increased FDG uptake. Despite various fallacies, FDG-PET/CT provides valuable information in evaluation of residual and recurrent malignant disease. In this article, we aim to describe some of these postsurgical changes secondary to inflammation, common surgical complications, and finally, the utility of FDG-PET/CT in these patients to detect recurrent disease, even in the background of postsurgical changes.

Smartphone Application WeChat for Clinical Follow-up of Discharged Patients with Head and Neck Tumors: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background:

Nowadays, social media tools such as short message service, Twitter, video, and web-based systems are more and more used in clinical follow-up, making clinical follow-up much more time- and cost-effective than ever before. However, as the most popular social media in China, little is known about the utility of smartphone WeChat application in follow-up. In this study, we aimed to investigate the feasibility and superiority of WeChat application in clinical follow-up.

Methods:

A total of 108 patients diagnosed with head and neck tumor were randomized to WeChat follow-up (WFU) group or telephone follow-up (TFU) group for 6-month follow-up. The follow-ups were delivered by WeChat or telephone at 2 weeks, 1, 2, 3, and 6 months to the patients after being discharged. The study measurements were time consumption for follow-up delivery, total economic cost, lost-to-follow-up rate, and overall satisfaction for the follow-up method.

Results:

Time consumption in WFU group for each patient (23.36 ± 6.16 min) was significantly shorter than that in TFU group (42.89 ± 7.15 min) (P < 0.001); total economic cost in WFU group (RMB 90 Yuan) was much lower than that in TFU group (RMB 196 Yuan). Lost-to-follow-up rate in the WFU group was 7.02% (4/57) compared with TFU group, 9.80% (5/51), while no significance was observed (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.176–2.740; P = 0.732). The overall satisfaction rate in WFU group was 94.34% (50/53) compared with 80.43% (37/46) in TFU group (95% CI: 0.057–0.067; P = 0.034).

Conclusions:

The smartphone WeChat application was found to be a viable option for follow-up in discharged patients with head and neck tumors. WFU was time-effective, cost-effective, and convenient in communication. This doctor-led follow-up model has the potential to establish a good physician-patient relationship by enhancing dynamic communications and providing individual health instructions.

Trial Registration:

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR-IOR-15007498; http://www.chictr.org.cn/ showproj.aspx?proj=12613.

Follow-up program in head and neck cancer

Follow-up program in head and neck cancer (HNC) is an important issue in patients management. It represents the major dilemma in daily practice clinic. Many guidelines have been published in order to better define the best clinical protocol, but a consensus has not been attained yet. We constructed a follow-up program based on specific primary subsite, to standardize patients surveillance after treatment of HNC.

Guidelines for the Surgical Management of Laryngeal Cancer: Korean Society of Thyroid-Head and Neck Surgery

Korean Society of Thyroid-Head and Neck Surgery appointed a Task Force to develop clinical practice guidelines for the surgical treatment of laryngeal cancer. This Task Force conducted a systematic search of the EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and KoreaMed databases to identify relevant articles, using search terms selected according to the key questions. Evidence-based recommendations were then created on the basis of these articles. An external expert review and Delphi questionnaire were applied to reach consensus regarding the recommendations. The resulting guidelines focus on the surgical treatment of laryngeal cancer with the assumption that surgery is the selected treatment modality after a multidisciplinary discussion in any context. These guidelines do not, therefore, address non-surgical treatment such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy. The committee developed 62 evidence-based recommendations in 32 categories intended to assist clinicians during management of patients with laryngeal cancer and patients with laryngeal cancer, and counselors and health policy-makers.

Risk of Recurrence in Laryngeal Cancer

A cohort study was undertaken to analyze the risk of recurrence among 1616 patients with primary squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx from 1983 to 2010 at a single, tertiary academic center in Oslo, Norway. The cohort was followed from the date of diagnosis to September 2011. Competing risk regression analysis assessed the association between various risk factors and the risk of recurrence, where death was considered a competing event. Recurrence was observed in 368 patients (23%) during the study period. The majority (71%) of recurrences involved the location of the primary tumor. The overall risk of recurrence during the first three years after initiating treatment was 20.5%. Increased risk of recurrence was observed in patients with supraglottic cancer, younger patients, those with T2–T3 tumors and in patients treated in the earlier part of the study period. Significant factors for recurrence in glottic carcinomas were age, treatment in the earlier part of the study and T-status, whereas age was a significant factor in supraglottic cancer. N-status appeared less significant. In conclusion, follow-up of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma should place particular emphasis on the site of the primary tumor, younger patients, cases of supraglottic cancer and T2-T4 primary tumors, especially during the first three years after treatment. More studies are needed to assess the impact of surgical versus non-surgical treatment, and eventually the significance of recurrence, for disease-specific and overall survival in cases of advanced laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Follow-up in Head and Neck Cancer: Do More Does It Mean Do Better? A Systematic Review and Our Proposal Based on Our Experience

As the patients population ages, cancer screening increases, and cancer treatments improve, millions more head and neck carcinoma (HNC) patients will be classified as cancer survivors in the future. Change in epidemiology with human papillomavirus related HNC leads to a number of young treated patients. After treatment for HNC intensive surveillance, including ear, nose and throat (ENT) endoscopy, imaging, and serology, confers a survival benefit that became less evident in unresectable recurrence. We performed a comprehensive revision of literature and analyzed the experience of our centre. We revised publications on this topic and added data derived from the interdisciplinary work of experts within medical oncology, ENT, and radiation oncology scientific societies. We retrospectively collected local and distant recurrence of chemoradiation treated patients at Santa Croce and Carle University Hospital. A HNC follow-up program is not already codified and worldwide accepted. There is a need of scheduled follow-up. We suggest adopting a standardized follow-up guideline, although a multidisciplinary approach is frequently requested to tailor surveillance program and treatment on each patient.

Follow-up of oral cancer patients: three uneventful years may be enough

OBJECTIVE

To explore the possibility of shortening the length of follow-up from 5 to 3 years in patients who have undergone curative treatment of an oral squamous cell carcinoma.

STUDY DESIGN

The medical records of 225 patients who had undergone initial curative treatment at the VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, between 2004 and 2009 were analyzed.

RESULTS

In 96 patients (42.7%) a secondary event occurred. Eighty-six percent of the secondary events were detected within 3 years. In the fourth and fifth years, 14% of the secondary events were found, consisting mainly of second primary tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Most secondary events occurred within the first 3 years of follow-up. Therefore, the case can be made for an altered regimen of follow-up beyond 3 years based on certain risk factors unique to the patient as well as the patient's ability to adequately report symptoms that may be associated with recurrent disease.

The Importance of Long-term Follow-up of Head and Neck Cancer Patients for Reliable Survival Analysis

OBJECTIVE: Analyze the influence of patients lost to follow-up in estimated survival rates calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method.

STUDY DESIGN: Only patients with previously untreated squamous cell carcinoma of the upper aerodigestive tract were selected. For the patients lost to follow-up anytime, the last medical evaluation date was collected to calculate the “estimate A” survival time. If the same patient returned to our outpatient clinic or further health information was obtained, the updated last information/evaluation date was also collected to calculate “estimate B” survival time. The survival curves considering “estimate A” and “B” survival rates were compared.

RESULTS: The overall 5 and 10-years survival rates for all patients calculated for “estimate A” were 54.0% and 46.0%, respectively; compared with 42.8% and 28.2% when were calculated considering “estimate B” ( P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Close follow-up of the head and neck cancer patients is essential for an accurate estimate of survival by KaplanMeier method.

EBM RATING: C

Failure pattern and salvage treatment after radical treatment of head and neck cancer

Purpose The aim of the study was to test the hypothesis that head and neck cancer (HNC) patients benefit from specialized follow-up (FU), as this strategy ensures timely detection of relapses for successful salvage treatment. This was done by evaluation of the pattern of failure, the temporal distribution of recurrences, and the outcome of salvage treatment in a contemporary cohort of HNC patients. Methods The study evaluated a cohort of 2062 consecutive patients treated with curative intent at Aarhus University Hospital from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2013. The database of DAHANCA contained recordings of recurrent disease in 567 patients with primary tumors of the larynx, pharynx, oral cavity, nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses and salivary glands. A review of medical records was performed in order to update and supplement the database. Results Failures of the 567 patients were primarily in T-site (65%) followed by N-site (36%) and M-site (22%). The vast majority of the first recurrences occurred within the first years after primary treatment; 62%, 82%, and 91% within the first, second and third year, respectively. Totally, 51% were amenable for salvage treatment, and 44% benefited from salvage in terms of a complete response. Permanent tumor control was observed in 128 patients (23%) after one or two salvage attempts. The highest salvage rate was recorded in patients with primary glottic carcinoma (41%) and the lowest among hypopharyngeal cancers (2%). Asymptomatic recurrence was recorded in 12% of all recurrences and this was found to be a positive prognostic factor for disease-specific survival, as they had significantly better outcome after salvage. Conclusion Our data support the usefulness of specialized FU in terms of early detection of recurrent disease. In particular patients with silent recurrences benefited from early detection, as they had a significantly lower risk ratio of death from primary HNC.