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Kukreja-Pandey S, Gaxiola-Garcia MA, Moheeputh N, Chen WF. Current and Future Implications of Lymphedema Surgery in Head and Neck Reconstruction. Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am 2024; 36:567-574. [PMID: 39217087 DOI: 10.1016/j.coms.2024.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
In this study, the authors shed light on the underappreciated realm of head and neck lymphedema (HNL) amid the backdrop of significant advancements in extremity lymphedema management. Despite its prevalence and impact, HNL has long been overlooked, attributed to its subtle symptom presentation and lack of awareness among primary care providers. The study delves into the unique challenges associated with diagnosing and treating HNL, emphasizing the predominance of internal swelling over external manifestations. The authors advocate for the refinement and standardization of outcome measures and the integration of innovative techniques such as indocyanine green lymphography and patient-reported outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Kukreja-Pandey
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Miguel Angel Gaxiola-Garcia
- Hospital Infantil de México "Federico Gómez" (Mexico's Children's Hospital), Dr Marquez 162, 06720 Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Wei F Chen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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Gaitatzis K, Thompson B, Blake FT, Koelmeyer L. Patient-reported outcome measures and physical function following head and neck lymphedema - a systematic review. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01683-3. [PMID: 39325349 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01683-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Head and neck cancer (HNC) treatments often lead to significant morbidity, including lymphedema. This systematic review aims to comprehensively explore the prevalence and impact of head and neck lymphedema (HNL) following treatment. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted up to September 2023. Studies evaluating HNL prevalence, associated factors, impact, patient-reported outcomes (PROMs), and physical assessments were included. Methodological quality assessment was performed, and data were synthesised narratively. RESULTS Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria, with methodological quality ranging from moderate to high. Internal lymphedema prevalence was consistently higher than external lymphedema, with varying rates attributed to treatment modalities and assessment methods. PROMs such as the Lymphedema Symptom Intensity and Distress-Head and Neck and physical assessments including Patterson's Rating Scale were commonly utilised. HNL significantly impacted quality of life and physical function, with reported symptoms including discomfort, tightness, swallowing difficulties, and psychological distress. CONCLUSION HNL is a common sequela of HNC treatment with significant implications for individuals' QoL. Standardised assessment protocols and tailored interventions are needed to address the needs of individuals with HNL and improve overall outcomes. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS This systematic review highlights a significant prevalence of lymphedema, particularly internal lymphedema in the larynx and pharynx, following treatment. Swallowing difficulties, nutritional issues, anxiety, depression, and body image concerns were associated with both internal and external lymphedema. The impact on quality of life is substantial, with survivors experiencing physical symptoms and psychosocial challenges, emphasising the importance of integrated care approaches tailored to both aspects of well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Gaitatzis
- Australian Lymphedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Belinda Thompson
- Australian Lymphedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Fiona Tisdall Blake
- Australian Lymphedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Louise Koelmeyer
- Australian Lymphedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Teo PT, Rogacki K, Gopalakrishnan M, Das IJ, Abazeed ME, Mittal BB, Gentile M. Determining risk and predictors of head and neck cancer treatment-related lymphedema: A clinicopathologic and dosimetric data mining approach using interpretable machine learning and ensemble feature selection. Clin Transl Radiat Oncol 2024; 46:100747. [PMID: 38450218 PMCID: PMC10915511 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctro.2024.100747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose The ability to determine the risk and predictors of lymphedema is vital in improving the quality of life for head and neck (HN) cancer patients. However, selecting robust features is challenging due to the multicollinearity and high dimensionality of radiotherapy (RT) data. This study aims to overcome these challenges using an ensemble feature selection technique with machine learning (ML). Materials and methods Thirty organs-at-risk, including bilateral cervical lymph node levels, were contoured, and dose-volume data were extracted from 76 HN treatment plans. Clinicopathologic data was collected. Ensemble feature selection was used to reduce the number of features. Using the reduced features as input to ML and competing risk models, internal and external lymphedema prediction capability was evaluated with the ML models, and time to lymphedema event and risk stratification were estimated using the risk models. Results Two ML models, XGBoost and random forest, exhibited robust prediction performance. They achieved average F1-scores and AUCs of 84 ± 3.3 % and 79 ± 11.9 % (external lymphedema), and 64 ± 12 % and 78 ± 7.9 % (internal lymphedema). Predictive ML and risk models identified common predictors, including bulky node involvement, high dose to various lymph node levels, and lymph nodes removed during surgery. At 180 days, removing 0-25, 26-50, and > 50 lymph nodes increased external lymphedema risk to 72.1 %, 95.6 %, and 57.7 % respectively (p = 0.01). Conclusion Our approach, involving the reduction of HN RT data dimensionality, resulted in effective ML models for HN lymphedema prediction. Predictive dosimetric features emerged from both predictive and competing risk models. Consistency with clinicopathologic features from other studies supports our methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Troy Teo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 251 E. Huron St, Galter Pavilion LC-178, IL 60611. Chicago, United States
| | - Kevin Rogacki
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 251 E. Huron St, Galter Pavilion LC-178, IL 60611. Chicago, United States
| | - Mahesh Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 251 E. Huron St, Galter Pavilion LC-178, IL 60611. Chicago, United States
| | - Indra J Das
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 251 E. Huron St, Galter Pavilion LC-178, IL 60611. Chicago, United States
| | - Mohamed E Abazeed
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 251 E. Huron St, Galter Pavilion LC-178, IL 60611. Chicago, United States
| | - Bharat B Mittal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 251 E. Huron St, Galter Pavilion LC-178, IL 60611. Chicago, United States
| | - Michelle Gentile
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Hospital, 800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
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Varghese JJ, Aithal VU, Sharan K, Devaraja K, Philip SJ, Guddattu V, Rajashekhar B. Comparison of Submental Surface Electromyography during Dry Swallow between Irradiated Head and Neck Cancer Survivors and Normal Individuals. Folia Phoniatr Logop 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38599192 DOI: 10.1159/000538732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study compared the submental surface electromyography (sEMG) duration and amplitude during dry swallowing between irradiated head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors and age-matched normal individuals. Further, the relationship between submental and infrahyoid sEMG in the irradiated HNC group was explored. METHOD Forty participants (20 HNC survivors and 20 age-matched normal individuals) participated in this study. The HNC survivors had completed organ preservation cancer treatment (at least 1-month post-treatment). They were on a complete oral diet without enteral supplementation (FOIS score> 4). Submental and infrahyoid sEMG activity was calculated for three trials of saliva swallow for each participant using sEMG. The duration and amplitude parameters considered were: onset duration - duration from the onset of swallowing to the maximum amplitude, offset duration - duration from the maximum amplitude to the end of the swallowing activity, total duration, and maximum amplitude. RESULTS The study found that irradiated HNC survivors exhibited prolonged temporal measures, particularly in the offset duration, which suggested a delayed descent of the hyolaryngeal complex during swallowing. Additionally, the HNC group showed a positive correlation between submental and infrahyoid sEMG. Furthermore, it was observed that the rate of increase in the duration of submental sEMG during subsequent swallowing was greater in HNC survivors which could be due to reduced salivation. CONCLUSION Compared to age-matched normal individuals, irradiated HNC survivors manifest alterations in the submental muscle activities during dry swallowing as measured using sEMG. The temporal and amplitude changes are likely to have arisen as a consequence of postradiation changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Jaison Varghese
- Department of Speech and Hearing, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Venkataraja U Aithal
- Department of Speech and Hearing, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Krishna Sharan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Justice KS Hegde Medical College, Nitte (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, India
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - K Devaraja
- Division of Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Serin Jiya Philip
- Department of Speech and Hearing, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Vasudeva Guddattu
- Department of Data Science, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Bellur Rajashekhar
- Department of Speech and Hearing, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
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Deng J, Dietrich MS, Aulino JM, Sinard RJ, Mannion K, Murphy BA. Longitudinal Pattern of Lymphedema and Fibrosis in Patients With Oral Cavity or Oropharyngeal Cancer: A Prospective Study. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024; 118:1029-1040. [PMID: 37939731 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to describe the prevalence, severity, and trajectory of internal lymphedema, external lymphedema, and fibrosis in patients with oral cavity or oropharyngeal (OCOP) cancer. METHODS AND MATERIALS One hundred twenty patients with newly diagnosed OCOP cancer were enrolled in a prospective longitudinal study. Recruitment was conducted at a comprehensive medical center. Participants were assessed pretreatment; at end of treatment; and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post-cancer treatment. Validated clinician-reported measures and computed tomography were used to assess the study outcomes. RESULTS Seventy-six patients who completed the 9- or 12-month assessments were included in this report. Examination of the external lymphedema and fibrosis trajectories revealed that the total severity score peaked between the end of treatment and 3 months posttreatment and then decreased gradually over time but did not return to baseline by 12 months posttreatment (P < .001). The longitudinal patterns of severity scores for patients treated with surgery only or with multimodality therapy were similar. Examination of the internal swelling trajectories revealed that all patients experienced a significant increase in sites with swelling immediately posttreatment. For patients treated with surgery only, swelling was minimal and returned to baseline by 9 to 12 months posttreatment. Patients receiving multimodal treatment experienced a gradual decrease in number of sites with swelling during the 12-month posttreatment period that remained significantly above baseline (P < .05). Computed tomography revealed different patterns of changes in prevertebral soft tissue and epiglottic thickness in the surgery-only and multimodality treatment groups during the 12-month posttreatment period. There were minimal changes in thickness in both regions in the surgery-only group. Patients with multimodal treatment had significant increases in thickness in both regions 3 months posttreatment that remained thicker at 12 months than at baseline (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Lymphedema and fibrosis are the common complications of OCOP cancer therapy. Routine assessment, monitoring, and timely treatment of lymphedema and fibrosis are critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Deng
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.
| | - Mary S Dietrich
- School of Nursing, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Joseph M Aulino
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Robert J Sinard
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Kyle Mannion
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Barbara A Murphy
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
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Stradling EJ, Barnhart MK, Robinson RA, Mogg PJ, Ward EC, Smee RI. Implementing flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallow screening within annual cancer surveillance appointments to monitor for late-stage radiation-induced dysphagia: A feasibility study. Head Neck 2024; 46:615-626. [PMID: 38151916 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Late-stage progressive decline of swallowing function after radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC) is often difficult to monitor. This study examined the feasibility and clinical outcomes of speech-language pathology implementing flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallow (FEES) screening during annual cancer surveillance visits to monitor late-stage swallowing function. METHODS Patients >2 years post treatment who attended routine oncological visits underwent FEES screening. Feasibility (service data, stakeholder survey) and swallowing outcomes (oral intake, secretions, internal lymphedema, penetration-aspiration, and residue) were collected. RESULTS Screening was completed with 70% (50/71) of eligible patients. Medical staff and speech-language pathologists indicated the protocol was worthwhile and achievable to incorporate into practice. Almost all patients were willing to complete the protocol annually. FEES outcomes identified 84% with dysphagia versus only 26% self-reported dysphagia. CONCLUSION Findings indicate FEES screening incorporated into annual oncological reviews is feasible and effective at monitoring late-stage swallowing function following HNC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma J Stradling
- Department of Speech Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, South-Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, POWH, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Molly K Barnhart
- Department of Speech Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, South-Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, POWH, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachelle A Robinson
- Department of Speech Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, South-Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Penny J Mogg
- Department of Speech Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, South-Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth C Ward
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre of Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Robert I Smee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, POWH, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tamworth Base Hospital, Tamworth, New South Wales, Australia
- The Clinical Teaching School, University New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
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Arends CR, van der Molen L, Lindhout JE, Bragante K, Navran A, van den Brekel MWM, Stuiver MM. Lymphedema and Trismus after Head and Neck Cancer, and the Impact on Body Image and Quality of Life. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:653. [PMID: 38339404 PMCID: PMC10854984 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16030653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess the prevalence of chronic lymphedema and trismus in patients > 6 months after head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment, and to explore how the severity of these conditions correlates with body image and quality of life. METHODS The cross-sectional sample included 59 patients, treated for HNC between six months to three years ago. Physical measurements were performed to assess the presence of external lymphedema and trismus (<36 mm). Furthermore, participants completed two questionnaires regarding body image (BIS) and quality of life (UW-QoL V4). RESULTS Lymphedema prevalence was 94.1% (95% CI 0.86-0.98), with a median severity score of 9 (range 0-24). Trismus prevalence in this sample was 1.2%. The median BIS score was 2, indicating a positive body image. The UW-QoL score showed a good QOL with a median of 100. Only the domain of saliva and overall related health had a lower median of 70 and 60, respectively. There was no correlation between lymphedema and body image (r = 0.08, p = 0.544). Patients with higher lymphedema scores reported poorer speech with a moderate correlation (r = -0.39, p = 0.003). CONCLUSION Lymphedema is a highly prevalent, but moderately severe late side-effect of HNC with a limited impact on quality of life domains except for speech, in our cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coralie R. Arends
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology and Surgery, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.v.d.M.); (M.W.M.v.d.B.); (M.M.S.)
| | - Lisette van der Molen
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology and Surgery, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.v.d.M.); (M.W.M.v.d.B.); (M.M.S.)
- Amsterdam Center for Language and Communication, University of Amsterdam, 1012 WP Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Josephine E. Lindhout
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology and Surgery, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.v.d.M.); (M.W.M.v.d.B.); (M.M.S.)
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Karoline Bragante
- Department of Physical Rehabilitation, Federal University of Health Science of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil;
| | - Arash Navran
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Michiel W. M. van den Brekel
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology and Surgery, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.v.d.M.); (M.W.M.v.d.B.); (M.M.S.)
- Amsterdam Center for Language and Communication, University of Amsterdam, 1012 WP Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn M. Stuiver
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology and Surgery, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.v.d.M.); (M.W.M.v.d.B.); (M.M.S.)
- Center for Quality of Life and Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center of Expertise Urban Vitality, Faculty of Health, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, 1091 GC Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Arends CR, van der Molen L, van den Brekel MWM, Stuiver MM. Test-Retest Reliability of a Protocol for Assessment of Local Tissue Water in the Head and Neck Area. Lymphat Res Biol 2024; 22:12-19. [PMID: 37815799 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2022.0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Lymphedema measurement is vital to select appropriate treatment and monitor its progress. Quantifying lymphedema in the head and neck area is challenging. The use of tissue dielectric constant (TDC) measurements has shown promising results in other body areas. This study aims to determine the test-retest reliability of a TDC measurement protocol developed for the head and neck area. Methods and Results: A detailed measurement protocol, including eight measurement points per side, was developed. Subsequently, the reliability of the protocol was tested in a sample of healthy participants (n = 50, 28 males). Using the LymphScanner (Delfin, Finland), participants were subjected to two measurement sessions. Each measurement point was measured three times per session. Test-retest reliability for each point was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and standard errors of measurement (SEMs). Using the average of three measurements, reliability was good to excellent for all points (ICCs 0.81-0.95), with small measurement errors (SEMs 1.51-2.86). The reliability of a single measurement was moderate to excellent for all measurement points (ICCs 0.58-0.87), with larger, but still small, measurement errors (SEMs 1.65-3.39). When using single measurements, the lowest ICCs were found for the temporal (left 0.73 and right 0.67) and submandibular (left 0.58 and right 0.77) locations. Conclusion: Measurements with the LymphScanner, taken according to the developed protocol, are reliable in healthy participants. We recommend using the average of three measurements to optimize reliability. The protocol is fit for further testing in patient populations and for determining normal values in a larger scale study with healthy subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coralie R Arends
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology and Surgery, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lisette van der Molen
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology and Surgery, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Center for Language and Communication, ACLC-Institute of Phonetic Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michiel W M van den Brekel
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology and Surgery, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Center for Language and Communication, ACLC-Institute of Phonetic Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn M Stuiver
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology and Surgery, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Expertise Urban Vitality, Faculty of Health, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department for Quality of Life, Division of Psychosocial Oncology and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Wishart LR, Ward EC, Galloway G. Advances in and applications of imaging and radiomics in head and neck cancer survivorship. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2023; 31:368-373. [PMID: 37548514 DOI: 10.1097/moo.0000000000000918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Radiological imaging is an essential component of head/neck cancer (HNC) care. Advances in imaging modalities (including CT, PET, MRI and ultrasound) and analysis have enhanced our understanding of tumour characteristics and prognosis. However, the application of these methods to evaluate treatment-related toxicities and functional burden is still emerging. This review showcases recent literature applying advanced imaging and radiomics to the assessment and management of sequelae following chemoradiotherapy for HNC. RECENT FINDINGS Whilst primarily early-stage/exploratory studies, recent investigations have showcased the feasibility of using radiological imaging, particularly advanced/functional MRI (including diffusion-weighted and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI), to quantify treatment-induced tissue change in the head/neck musculature, and the clinical manifestation of lymphoedema/fibrosis and dysphagia. Advanced feature analysis and radiomic studies have also begun to give specific focus to the prediction of functional endpoints, including dysphagia, trismus and fibrosis. SUMMARY There is demonstrated potential in the use of novel imaging techniques, to help better understand pathophysiology, and improve assessment and treatment of functional deficits following HNC treatment. As larger studies emerge, technologies continue to progress, and pathways to clinical translation are honed, the application of these methods offers an exciting opportunity to transform clinical practices and improve outcomes for HNC survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurelie R Wishart
- Centre for Functioning & Health Research, Metro South Hospital & Health Service
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland
| | - Elizabeth C Ward
- Centre for Functioning & Health Research, Metro South Hospital & Health Service
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland
| | - Graham Galloway
- Translational Research Institute
- Herston Imaging Research Facility, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Wei C, Lan X, Qiu M, Cui R, Fu Q, Shinge SAU, Muluh TA, Jiang O. Expanding the role of combined immunochemotherapy and immunoradiotherapy in the management of head and neck cancer (Review). Oncol Lett 2023; 26:372. [PMID: 37965160 PMCID: PMC10641411 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2023.13958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has become one of the most promising approaches in tumor therapy, and there are numerous associated clinical trials in China. As an immunosuppressive tumor, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) carries a high mutation burden, making immune checkpoint inhibitors promising candidates in this field due to their unique mechanism of action. The present review outlines a comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer treatment approach and elaborates on how combining immunochemotherapy and immunoradiotherapy guidelines could enhance clinical efficacy in patients with HNSCC. Furthermore, the present review explores the immunology of HNSCC, current immunotherapeutic strategies to enhance antitumor activity, ongoing clinical trials and the future direction of the current immune landscape in HNSCC. Advanced-stage HNSCC presents with a poor prognosis, low survival rates and minimal improvement in patient survival trends over time. Understanding the potential of immunotherapy and ways to combine it with surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy confers good prospects for the management of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive HNSCC, as well as other HPV-positive malignancies. Understanding the immune system and its effect on HNSCC progression and metastasis will help to uncover novel biomarkers for the selection of patients and to enhance the efficacy of treatments. Further research on why current immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted drugs are only effective for some patients in the clinic is needed; therefore, further research is required to improve the overall survival of affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Wei
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojun Lan
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Maona Qiu
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Ran Cui
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Qiuxia Fu
- Department of General Medicine, The People's Hospital of Luzhou City, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Shafiu A. Umar Shinge
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Tobias Achu Muluh
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
| | - Ou Jiang
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
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Hagren A, Brogårdh C, Johansson K, Sjövall J, Ekvall Hansson E. Test-Retest Reliability of Local Tissue Water and Circumference Measurements in the Head and Neck Area of Healthy Women and Men. Lymphat Res Biol 2023; 21:381-387. [PMID: 36898062 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2022.0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Measurements of local tissue water and circumferences are methods to evaluate lymphedema. Knowledge about reference values and reproducibility needs, however, to be determined for the head and neck (HN) area of healthy persons before it can be used in persons with HN lymphedema. The objective of this study was to evaluate the test-retest reliability including measurement errors of local tissue water and neck circumference measurements (CM) in the HN area in a healthy cohort. Methods and Results: Thirty-one women and 29 men were measured on 2 occasions, 14 days apart. The percentage of tissue water content (PWC) were calculated in four facial points and neck CM at three levels. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), changes in mean, standard error of measurement (SEM%), and smallest real difference (SRD%) were calculated. Reliability for PWC was fair to excellent for both women (ICC 0.67-0.89) and men (ICC 0.71-0.87). Measurement errors were acceptable in all points in both women (SEM% 3.6%-6.4%, SRD% 9.9%-17.7%) and men (SEM% 5.1%-10.9%, SRD% 14.2%-30.3%). For the CM, ICCs were excellent both for women (ICC 0.85-0.90) and men (ICC 0.92-0.94), and measurement errors were low (SEM% for women 1.9%-2.1%, SRD% 5.1%-5.9%; SEM% for men 1.6%-2.0%, SRD% 4.6%-5.6%). Most of the lowest values were found close to bone and vessels. Conclusion: Measurements for PWC and CM in the HN area are reliable in healthy women and men, with acceptable to low measurement errors. PWC points close to bony structures and vessels should, however, be used with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agneta Hagren
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Christina Brogårdh
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Rehabilitation Medicine, Memory Disorders and Geriatrics, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Karin Johansson
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Johanna Sjövall
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Eva Ekvall Hansson
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
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12
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Stubblefield MD, Weycker D. Under recognition and treatment of lymphedema in head and neck cancer survivors - a database study. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:229. [PMID: 36952136 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07698-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Head and neck cancer (HNC) will be diagnosed in approximately 54,000 Americans in 2022 with more than 11,000 dying as a result. The treatment of HNC often involves aggressive multimodal therapy including surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic therapy. HNC and its treatments are associated with multiple painful and function-limiting neuromusculoskeletal and visceral long-term and late effects. Among these is head and neck lymphedema (HNL), the abnormal accumulation of protein rich fluid, in as many as 90% of survivors. Though HNL is common and potentially contributory to other function-limiting issues in this population, it is notoriously understudied, underrecognized, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. This study seeks to determine the incidence of HNC-related lymphedema diagnosis and treatment in a large US healthcare claims repository database. METHODS A retrospective observational cohort design and data from an integrated US healthcare claims repository-the IBM MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters (CCAE) and Medicare Supplemental and Coordination of Benefits (MDCR) Databases spanning the period April 1, 2012 through March 31, 2020. RESULTS Of the 16,654 HNC patients eligible for evaluation, 1,082 (6.5%) with a diagnosis of lymphedema were identified based on eligibility criteria. Of the 521 HNC patients evaluated for lymphedema treatment, 417 (80.0%) patients received 1.5 courses of MLD, 71 (13.6%) patients were prescribed compression garments, and 45 (8.6%) patients received an advanced pneumatic compression device. CONCLUSION HNL in this population of HNC survivors was underdiagnosed and treated compared with contemporary assessments HNL incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Stubblefield
- Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ, 07052, USA.
| | - Derek Weycker
- Policy Analysis Inc. (PAI), 822 Boylston Street, Suite 206, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
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13
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Starmer HM, Hutcheson K, Patterson J. Internal oedema and dysphagia characteristics in patients with head and neck cancer. Clin Otolaryngol 2023. [PMID: 36918287 DOI: 10.1111/coa.14046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Heather M Starmer
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Katherine Hutcheson
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Joanne Patterson
- School of Health Science Research, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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14
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Starmer H, Cherry MG, Patterson J, Young B, Fleming J. Assessment of Measures of Head and Neck Lymphedema Following Head and Neck Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review. Lymphat Res Biol 2023; 21:42-51. [PMID: 35679595 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2021.0100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Head and neck lymphedema is a common condition following head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment, with substantial functional morbidity. This systematic review aimed to (1) identify tools used to assess head and neck lymphedema in HNC patients and (2) determine their validity and reliability. Methods: Electronic and hand searches of Prospero, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Embase were searched from their inception until April 2021, and hand searches were independently screened by two reviewers. Studies were included if they were available in English and measured lymphedema in adult HNC patients (aged ≥18 years). Data including psychometric characteristics were extracted and synthesized narratively, with the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 and the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments checklists used to assess risk of bias. Results: Thirty-three studies, reporting 38 assessment tools, were included. Assessments included clinician rating scales, symptom inventories, size measures, measures of internal edema, radiographic and ultrasonographic measures, and quality-of-life measures. Of the 38 measures cited, only 11 had any degree of validation and reliability testing. Risk of bias varied among the different assessment tools. Conclusion: While many tools are used in the assessment of head and neck lymphedema, the majority of these tools lack validation and reliability data. Only one tool, the Head and Neck Lymphedema and Fibrosis Symptom Inventory, met criteria for strong quality assessment. Further efforts to establish a core set of metrics for this complex condition are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Starmer
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Institution of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Mary Gemma Cherry
- Institution of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Patterson
- Institution of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Bridget Young
- Institution of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jason Fleming
- Liverpool Head and Neck Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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15
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A Prospective, Longitudinal and Exploratory Study of Head and Neck Lymphoedema and Dysphagia Following Chemoradiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer. Dysphagia 2022:10.1007/s00455-022-10526-1. [DOI: 10.1007/s00455-022-10526-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe aim of the study was to examine the following: (a) the trajectory of external and internal head and neck lymphoedema (HNL) in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) up to 12 months post-chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and (b) the relationship between HNL and swallowing function. Using a prospective longitudinal cohort study, external/internal HNL and swallowing were examined in 33 participants at 3, 6 and 12 months post-CRT. External HNL was assessed using the Assessment of Lymphoedema of the Head and Neck and the MD Anderson Cancer Centre Lymphoedema Rating Scale. Internal HNL was rated using Patterson’s Radiotherapy Oedema Rating Scale. Swallowing was assessed via clinical, instrumental and patient-reported measures. Associations between HNL and swallowing were examined using multivariable regression models. External HNL was prevalent at 3 months (71%), improved by 6 months (58%) and largely resolved by 12 months (10%). In contrast, moderate/severe internal HNL was prevalent at 3 months (96%), 6 months (84%) and at 12 months (65%). More severe penetration/aspiration and increased diet modification were associated with higher severities of external HNL (p=0.006 and p=0.031, respectively) and internal HNL (p<0.001 and p=0.007, respectively), and more diffuse internal HNL (p=0.043 and p=0.001, respectively). Worse patient-reported swallowing outcomes were associated with a higher severity of external HNL (p=0.001) and more diffuse internal HNL (p=0.002). External HNL largely resolves by 12 months post-CRT, but internal HNL persists. Patients with a higher severity of external and/or internal HNL and those with more diffuse internal HNL can be expected to have more severe dysphagia.
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16
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Pigott A, Brown B, White N, McPhail S, Porceddu S, Liu H, Jeans C, Panizza B, Nixon J. A prospective observational cohort study examining the development of head and neck lymphedema from the time of diagnosis. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2022. [PMID: 36101931 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.13843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Head and neck lymphedema can occur in the internal or external structures of the head and neck region. Little is known about the development of this condition over the course of treatment for head and neck cancer. This study aimed to observe the development of internal and external lymphedema from diagnosis to 12 weeks postacute treatment. METHODS A single center, prospective observational cohort study assessed participants for external lymphedema, internal lymphedema, quality of life, and symptom burden. Assessments were conducted prior to starting radiotherapy (RT), at the end of RT, 6 and 12 weeks after RT. RESULTS Forty-six participants were recruited. External lymphedema as measured by percentage water content, increased from 41.9 at baseline (95% CI: 39.3-44.4) to 50.4 (95% CI: 46.0-54.8) at 12 weeks following RT (p-value < .001). After adjusting for changes in weight and participant age at baseline, a general increase in tape measurements was observed over time with significant increases from baseline to 12 weeks post-RT for all measurement points. By 12 weeks post-RT, all participants had lymphedema present in eight of 13 internal sites assessed. CONCLUSIONS Internal and external head and neck lymphedema was observed to increase from baseline to 12 weeks after completion of RT without abatement. People with head and neck cancer should be educated about the potentially extended duration of this treatment side effect. Further research is required to determine the point at which swelling symptoms recede.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Pigott
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bena Brown
- Department of Speech Pathology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicole White
- Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation and Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Steven McPhail
- Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation and Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sandro Porceddu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Howard Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Claire Jeans
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Speech Pathology, Calvary Mater, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ben Panizza
- Queensland Skull Base Unit and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jodie Nixon
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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17
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Fadhil M, Singh R, Havas T, Jacobson I. Systematic review of head and neck lymphedema assessment. Head Neck 2022; 44:2301-2315. [PMID: 35818729 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck lymphedema (HNL) is an increasingly recognized complication of head and neck cancer and its treatment. However, no consensus exists on the "gold-standard" assessment tool for the purposes of diagnosis, classification, or monitoring of HNL. We conducted a systematic review of the literature regarding HNL assessment to determine the optimal method/s of assessment for patients with HNL. A review of publications between January 2000 and September 2021 was undertaken on four electronic databases. Studies were excluded if no clear assessment method of HNL was documented. Sixty-seven articles were included in the study. A wide range of assessment methods for HNL have been reported in the literature. For the purposes of diagnosis and classification of physical findings, computed tomography (CT) appears the most promising tool available for both external and internal HNL. In terms of monitoring, ultrasound appears optimal for external HNL, while a clinician-reported rating scale on laryngoscopy is the gold standard for internal HNL. Patient-reported assessment must be considered alongside objective methods to classify symptom burden and monitor improvement with treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Fadhil
- Prince of Wales Hospital Otolaryngology Head and Neck Research Group, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ravjit Singh
- Prince of Wales Hospital Otolaryngology Head and Neck Research Group, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Otolaryngology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Thomas Havas
- Prince of Wales Hospital Otolaryngology Head and Neck Research Group, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Otolaryngology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ian Jacobson
- Prince of Wales Hospital Otolaryngology Head and Neck Research Group, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Otolaryngology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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18
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Schrijvers D, Charlton R. Palliative Care and End-of-Life Issues in Elderly Cancer Patients With Head and Neck Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:769003. [PMID: 35311138 PMCID: PMC8931678 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.769003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of elderly patients with incurable head and neck cancer will increase. They are in need of geriatric palliative care, that takes into account oncology, palliative care and geriatric medicine. In this review of the most recent and relevant literature and includes the expert opinion of the authors, several physical problems (e.g. pain, fatigue, malnutrition, and loco-regional problems) encountered by the elderly head and neck cancer patients are addressed. In addition end-of life issues in this patient population are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Schrijvers
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ziekenhuisnetwerk Antwerpen, Antwerp, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Dirk Schrijvers,
| | - Rodger Charlton
- Leicester Medical School, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
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19
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Head and Neck Lymphedema Assessment Methods. REHABILITATION ONCOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/01.reo.0000000000000273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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20
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Jeans C, Brown B, Ward EC, Vertigan AE. Lymphoedema after head and neck cancer treatment: an overview for clinical practice. Br J Community Nurs 2021; 26:S24-S29. [PMID: 33797943 DOI: 10.12968/bjcn.2021.26.sup4.s24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Lymphoedema is a disorder of the lymphatic system that presents as an atypical swelling and accumulation of protein-rich fluid within the interstitial spaces. Head and neck lymphoedema (HNL) is highly prevalent in patients who have been treated for head and neck cancer (HNC) and may manifest externally on the face and neck; internally within the oral cavity, pharynx or larynx; or as a combination of both. HNL is known to contribute to a wide range of physical, functional and psychological issues, and presents several unique challenges in terms of its management. This review article provides an overview of HNL for clinicians and aims to improve awareness of this condition and the impact it has on patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Jeans
- Speech Pathologist, Speech Pathology Department, Calvary Mater Hospital Newcastle, New South Wales Australia; PhD candidate, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bena Brown
- Senior Research Fellow, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia; Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Health Services District, Queensland Health, Queensland, Australia
| | - Elizabeth C Ward
- Professor, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia; Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Health Services District, Queensland Health, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anne E Vertigan
- Speech Pathology Manager, Speech Pathology Department, John Hunter Hospital and Belmont Hospital, New South Wales, Australia; Conjoint Associate Professor School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia; Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Disease, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New South Wales, Australia
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21
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Mayrovitz HN, Patel A, Kavadi R, Khan Z, Bartolone S. An Approach Toward Assessing Head-and-Neck Lymphedema Using Tissue Dielectric Constant Ratios: Method and Normal Reference Values. Lymphat Res Biol 2021; 19:562-567. [PMID: 33529086 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2020.0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There are multiple methods to quantitatively assess limb lymphedema, but quantitative methods to assess external lymphedema in persons with head-and-neck lymphedema are quite limited. Quantification in this difficult condition currently uses multiple time-consuming head, face, and neck metric measurements, the accuracy of which is unclear. Thus, there is an important need for a new approach that is sufficiently convenient yet accurate to quantify head-and-neck lymphedema. The approach adopted was to use tissue dielectric constant (TDC) measurements that depend on tissue water, at neck and a submental area, and normalize these to TDC values at the forearm as a way to develop subject-independent indices. Methods and Results: TDC was measured in 60 self-reported healthy nonlymphedematous adults (34 female, 18-81 years, 18.5-45.7 Kg/m2) at two neck sites and one arm site bilaterally and at a submental area. Neck-to-arm-index (NAI) and submental-to-arm-index (SAI) ratios were calculated. TDC values (mean ± standard deviation [SD]) for neck, submental, and arm were, respectively, 37.4 ± 6.9, 35.9 ± 7.7, and 30.1 ± 4.6. Mean NAI and SAI values were 1.253 ± 0.222 and 1.214 ± 0.296 respectively. Head-and-neck lymphedema thresholds calculated as mean + 2.5 SD were for NAI and SAI 1.80 and 1.95, respectively. Conclusions: An approach to help quantify and track head-and-neck lymphedema using TDC neck and/or submental values normalized to a person's forearm TDC values indicates threshold values between 1.80 and 1.95. These ratios, denoted as NAI and SAI, are suggested for use to detect and track changes in lymphedema status based on a patient's changing indices associated with lymphedema treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey N Mayrovitz
- Division of Physiology, Department of Medical Education, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University (NSU), Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Ashini Patel
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University (NSU), Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Raj Kavadi
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University (NSU), Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Zara Khan
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University (NSU), Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Samantha Bartolone
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University (NSU), Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, USA
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