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Swiecicki PL, Bellile E, Dragovic AF, McHugh J, Udager A, Mierzwa ML, Shah J, Heft-Neal M, Rosko A, Malloy KM, Casper K, Chinn SB, Shuman AG, Stucken C, Chepeha DB, Wolf GT, Bradford CR, Eisbruch A, Prince ME, Worden FP, Spector ME. Upfront Neck Dissection for Treatment Selection and Improvement in Quality of Life as a Novel Treatment Paradigm for Deintensification in HPV+ OPSCC. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:2393-2401. [PMID: 38517480 PMCID: PMC11147695 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-3247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Locoregionally advanced HPV+ oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) has excellent cure rates, although current treatment regimens are accompanied by acute and long-term toxicities. We designed a phase II deescalation trial for patients with HPV+ OPSCC to evaluate the feasibility of an upfront neck dissection to individualize definitive treatment selection to improve the quality of life without compromising survival. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with T1-3, N0-2 HPV+ OPSCC underwent an upfront neck dissection with primary tumor biopsy. Arm A included patients with a single lymph node less than six centimeters, with no extracapsular spread (ECS) and no primary site adverse features underwent transoral surgery. Arm B included patients who had two or more positive lymph nodes with no ECS, or those with primary site adverse features were treated with radiation alone. Arm C included patients who had ECS in any lymph node and were treated with chemoradiation. The primary endpoint was quality of life at 1 year compared with a matched historical control. RESULTS Thirty-four patients were enrolled and underwent selective neck dissection. On the basis of pathologic characteristics, 14 patients were assigned to arm A, 10 patients to arm B, and 9 to arm C. A significant improvement was observed in Head and Neck Quality of Life (HNQOL) compared with historical controls (-2.6 vs. -11.9, P = 0.034). With a median follow-up of 37 months, the 3-year overall survival was 100% and estimated 3-year estimated progression-free survival was 96% [95% confidence interval (CI), 76%-99%]. CONCLUSIONS A neck dissection-driven treatment paradigm warrants further research as a deintensification strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul L Swiecicki
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Emily Bellile
- Cancer Data Science Shared Resource, Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Aleksandar F Dragovic
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jonathan McHugh
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Aaron Udager
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Michelle Lynn Mierzwa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jennifer Shah
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Molly Heft-Neal
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Andrew Rosko
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kelly M Malloy
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Keith Casper
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Steven Bennett Chinn
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Andrew G Shuman
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Chaz Stucken
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Douglas B Chepeha
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Gregory T Wolf
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Avraham Eisbruch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mark E Prince
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Francis P Worden
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Matthew E Spector
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA
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Douse DM, Yin LX, Olawuni FO, Glasgow AE, Habermann EB, Price DL, Tasche KK, Moore EJ, Van Abel KM. Racial disparities in surgical treatment of oropharyngeal cancer: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results review. Head Neck 2023; 45:2313-2322. [PMID: 37461323 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27467] [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] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) has been rising. This manuscript looks to explore racial disparities in the surgical management of OPSCC. METHODS A cancer database was queried for patients with OPSCC diagnosed from 2004 to 2017. Univariate and multivariable logistic regressions were used to evaluate associations between patient race/ethnicity, surgical treatment, and reasons for lack of surgery. RESULTS 37 306 (74.3%) patients did not undergo surgery, while 12 901 (25.7%) patients did. Non-Hispanic black (NHB) patients were less likely to undergo surgery than other races (17.9% vs. 26.5%; p < 0.0001). In clinical discussions, the Asian, Native American, Hawaiian, Pacific Islander (ANAHPI), and unknown race group was more likely to directly refuse surgery when recommended (2.5% vs. 1.5%; p = 0.015). CONCLUSION Racial differences exist in treatment for OPSCC. NHB patients are less likely to actually undergo surgical management for OPSCC, while other patients are more likely to directly "refuse" surgery outright when offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dontre' M Douse
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Linda X Yin
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Felicia O Olawuni
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Amy E Glasgow
- Division of Health Care Policy and Research and the Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic School of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Elizabeth B Habermann
- Division of Health Care Policy and Research and the Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic School of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Daniel L Price
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kendall K Tasche
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Eric J Moore
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kathryn M Van Abel
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Heft Neal ME, Walline HM, Haring CT. Circulating Tumor DNA in Human Papillomavirus-Mediated Oropharynx Cancer: Leveraging Early Data to Inform Future Directions. Cancer J 2023; 29:215-219. [PMID: 37471611 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000670] [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: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has become an area of intense study in many solid malignancies including head and neck cancer. This is of particular interest for human papillomavirus-mediated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma as this cohort of patients has excellent survival and is undergoing current clinical trials aimed at treatment de-escalation. Recent studies have demonstrated the prognostic implications of pretreatment ctDNA and the utility of monitoring ctDNA during and posttreatment; however, there is a need for a more critical understanding of ctDNA as it is beginning to be incorporated into clinical trials. This review discusses the current state of ctDNA in oropharynx cancer focusing on ctDNA kinetics and minimal residual disease detection and ends with a discussion of future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heather M Walline
- From the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Catherine T Haring
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
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Surgical Treatment for Advanced Oropharyngeal Cancer: A Narrative Review. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59020304. [PMID: 36837506 PMCID: PMC9961866 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59020304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: to describe current scientific knowledge regarding the treatment options in advanced oropharyngeal cancer. The standard care for advanced oropharyngeal cancer (OPSCC) has been chemoradiotherapy, although surgical approaches followed by adjuvant treatment have been proposed. The best therapy for each patient should be decided by an interdisciplinary tumour-board. Different strategies should be considered for the specific patient's treatment: surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy or combinations of them. The treatment choice is influenced by tumour variability and prognostic factors, but it also depends on cancer extension, extranodal extension, nervous invasion, human papilloma virus (HPV) presence, making the decisional algorithm not always clear. HPV-related OPSCC is strongly associated with a favourable overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival rate (DSS); by contrast, HPV-negative OPSCC often flags a worse prognosis. Consequently, the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) differentiates OPSCC treatment and prognosis based on HPV status. Methods: we carried out a review of current scientific literature to analyze the different indications and limitations of surgical treatment options in OPSCC stage III and IV. Conclusion: robotic surgery or open approaches with reconstructive flaps can be considered in advanced stages, resulting in the de-intensification of subsequent systemic therapy and fewer related side effects. Furthermore, in the event of the primary failure of systemic therapy or disease recurrence, the surgical approach constitutes an additional therapeutic option which lengthens patient survival functions.
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Treating Head and Neck Cancer in the Age of Immunotherapy: A 2023 Update. Drugs 2023; 83:217-248. [PMID: 36645621 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01835-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Most patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) will present with locally advanced disease, requiring multimodality therapy. While this approach has a curative intent, a significant subset of these patients will develop locoregional failure and/or distant metastases. The prognosis of these patients is poor, and therapeutic options other than palliative chemotherapy are urgently needed. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) overexpression is an important factor in the pathogenesis of HNSCC, and a decade ago, the EGFR targeting monoclonal antibody cetuximab was approved for the treatment of late-stage HNSCC in different settings. In 2016, the anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1) immune checkpoint inhibitors nivolumab and pembrolizumab were both approved for the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic HNSCC with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy, and in 2019, pembrolizumab was approved for first-line treatment (either as monotherapy in PD-L1 expressing tumors, or in combination with chemotherapy). Currently, trials are ongoing to include immune checkpoint inhibition in the (neo)adjuvant treatment of HNSCC as well as in novel combinations with other drugs in the recurrent/metastatic setting to improve response rates and survival and help overcome resistance mechanisms to immune checkpoint blockade. This article provides a comprehensive review of the management of head and neck cancers in the current era of immunotherapy.
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Lin C, Sharbel DD, Topf MC. Surgical clinical trials for HPV-positive oropharyngeal carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:992348. [PMID: 36439459 PMCID: PMC9682030 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.992348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment of HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) continues to evolve as multiple ongoing and recently completed clinical trials investigate the role of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Current trials are investigating transoral robotic surgery (TORS) in treatment de-escalation protocols in an effort to optimize quality of life, while maintaining historical survival rates. The advantage of TORS is its minimally invasive approach to primary resection of the tumor as well as valuable pathologic staging. The ORATOR trial reported poorer quality of life in patients treated with TORS compared to primary radiotherapy though this was not a clinically meaningful difference. The recently published ECOG 3311 trial showed that surgery can be used to safely de-escalate the adjuvant radiation dose to 50 Gy in intermediate-risk patients. In this review, we summarize and discuss the past and current clinical trials involving surgery in the treatment of HPV-positive OPSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Lin
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Daniel D. Sharbel
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Michael C. Topf
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
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Mulcahy CF, Gross ND. Advances in Surgical Therapy for HPV-Associated Squamous Cell Carcinoma. CURRENT OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40136-022-00421-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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8
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Abdel-Halim CN, Rohde M, Larsen SR, Green TM, Ulhøi BP, Woller NC, Gerke O, Høilund-Carlsen PF, Sørensen JA, Godballe C. Inter- and Intrarater Reliability and Agreement Among Danish Head and Neck Pathologists Assessing Extranodal Extension in Lymph Node Metastases from Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinomas. Head Neck Pathol 2022; 16:1082-1090. [PMID: 35829862 PMCID: PMC9729471 DOI: 10.1007/s12105-022-01468-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extranodal extension (ENE) in lymph node metastases is one of the most important prognostic factors in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Studies have shown inconsistency among pathologists in the assessment of ENE. The aims of this study were: (1) to determine the interrater and intrarater reliability and agreement in the assessment of ENE among Danish pathologists and (2) to test if a standardized assessment method may increase interrater agreement. METHODS Four Danish head and neck pathologists assessed ENE presence or absence in 120 histological slides from lymph nodes with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma metastases (first round). Subsequently, guidelines were introduced to the pathologists and a new assessment was performed (second round). Finally, two of the pathologists assessed the slides to determine intrarater reliability and agreement (third round). RESULTS Interrater kappa coefficients varied between 0.57 and 0.67 in the first round and between 0.59 and 0.72 in the second round. The intrarater agreement between round 2 and 3 was 0.88 for pathologist 1 and 0.92 for pathologist 2 with resulting kappa coefficients of 0.76 (95% CI 0.64-0.88) and 0.84 (95% CI 0.74-0.94), respectively. CONCLUSION We found a moderate level of reliability and agreement among pathologists for ENE in lymph node metastases from oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas. The intrarater reliability and agreement was generally higher than interrater measures. Interrater agreement was slightly improved by standardized assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chadi Nimeh Abdel-Halim
- Department of ORL – Head & Neck Surgery and Audiology, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000 Odense, Denmark ,Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 19.3, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Max Rohde
- Department of ORL – Head & Neck Surgery and Audiology, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000 Odense, Denmark ,Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 19.3, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Stine Rosenkilde Larsen
- Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløws Vej 15, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Tina Marie Green
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 19.3, 5000 Odense, Denmark ,Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløws Vej 15, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Benedicte Parm Ulhøi
- Department of Pathology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Nina Claire Woller
- Department of Pathology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Inge Lehmanns Vej 14, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Oke Gerke
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 19.3, 5000 Odense, Denmark ,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Jens Ahm Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 19.3, 5000 Odense, Denmark ,Research Unit for Plastic Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark ,University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Christian Godballe
- Department of ORL – Head & Neck Surgery and Audiology, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000 Odense, Denmark ,Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 19.3, 5000 Odense, Denmark
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9
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The accuracy of clinical neck staging for p16-positive and negative oropharyngeal cancer and its therapeutic implications. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2022; 279:5339-5345. [PMID: 35781741 PMCID: PMC9519657 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-022-07430-7] [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: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) may be treated with primary surgery or primary (chemo)radiation. While surgery with concurrent neck dissection provides definitive pathological staging of the neck, non-surgical treatment relies on clinical staging for treatment planning. To assess the accuracy of clinical neck staging, we compared clinical to surgical staging after primary surgery in patients with p16-negative and p16-positive OPSCC. Methods Retrospective analysis of clinical, pathological, and oncologic outcome data of patients with OPSCC treated with primary surgery and bilateral neck dissection. Clinical and pathological nodal status were compared for p16-negative and p16-positive patients. Patients with occult metastatic disease were analyzed in detail. Results 95 patients were included. 60.5% of p16-negative patients and 66.6% of p16-positive patients had pathologically confirmed metastatic neck disease. p16-positive patients had improved 24-month recurrence-free survival compared to p16-negative patients at 93.3% vs. 69.6%. Pathological N-status differed from clinical N-status in 36.8% of p16-negative patients vs. 31.6% of p16-positive patients. Occult metastatic disease was more common in p16-negative patients at 18.4% vs. 8.8% for p16-positive patients. Clinical detection sensitivity for extranodal extension was low overall; sensitivity was 27.3% and specificity was 91.6% for p16-negative patients vs. 61.5% and 80.0% for p16-positive patients, respectively. Conclusion Our data show a considerable degree of inaccuracy of clinical neck staging results in all OPSCC patients which needs to be taken into consideration during therapy planning. For p16-positive patients, these findings warrant attention in the context of therapy deintensification to avoid undertreatment.
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Dickstein DR, Lehrer EJ, Hsieh K, Hotca A, Jones BM, Powers A, Sharma S, Liu J, Gupta V, Mell L, Husain Z, Kirke D, Misiukiewicz K, Posner M, Genden E, Bakst RL. Management of Older Adults with Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14112809. [PMID: 35681789 PMCID: PMC9179912 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14112809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Approximately one third of patients with head and neck cancer are older adults. The number of older adults with head and neck cancer continues to rise especially as life expectancy increases. However, this population remains significantly underrepresented in clinical trials. Due to this, there is no clear consensus regarding the optimal treatment for older adults with head and neck cancer. In general, older adults are a complex cohort due to variations in functional and performance status, medical comorbidities, and medication management. Treatment for head and neck cancer involves surgery, radiation therapy, systemic therapy, or a combination. These treatments are highly demanding. Additionally, they are associated with toxicity which can be especially difficult for older adults to tolerate. This may lead to treatment interruptions and compromised outcomes. In order to understand the optimal treatment for older adults with head and neck cancer, novel predictive scores are being developed. Additionally, ongoing clinical trials are investigating less intensive treatments for older adults. This review provides an overview of current clinical data, treatment considerations, and future areas of investigation for older adults with head and neck cancer. Abstract Thirty percent of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are at least 70 years of age. This number continues to rise as life expectancy continues to increase. Still, older adults with HNSCC remain underrepresented in clinical trials, resulting in ambiguity on optimal management. Older adults are a complex patient population, often requiring increased support due to issues relating to functional and performance status, medical comorbidities, and medication management. Furthermore, in older adults with HNSCC, many of these conditions are independently associated with increased toxicity and worse outcomes. Toxicity in the older adult remains difficult to predict and to understand, and as treatment decisions are based on treatment tolerability, it is essential to understand the toxicities and how to minimize them. Novel predictive scores are being developed specifically for older adults with HNSCC to understand toxicity and to assist in personalized treatment decisions. There are clinical trials presently underway that are investigating shortened radiation courses and novel, less toxic systemic treatments in this population. In the forthcoming sections, we provide a detailed overview of the clinical data, treatment paradigms, and considerations in this population. This review provides a comprehensive overview of existing clinical data and clinical considerations in the older adult head and neck cancer population. Additionally, we provide a detailed overview of pertinent current and ongoing clinical trials, as well as future areas for investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R. Dickstein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (D.R.D.); (E.J.L.); (K.H.); (A.H.); (B.M.J.); (S.S.); (J.L.); (V.G.)
| | - Eric J. Lehrer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (D.R.D.); (E.J.L.); (K.H.); (A.H.); (B.M.J.); (S.S.); (J.L.); (V.G.)
| | - Kristin Hsieh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (D.R.D.); (E.J.L.); (K.H.); (A.H.); (B.M.J.); (S.S.); (J.L.); (V.G.)
| | - Alexandra Hotca
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (D.R.D.); (E.J.L.); (K.H.); (A.H.); (B.M.J.); (S.S.); (J.L.); (V.G.)
| | - Brianna M. Jones
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (D.R.D.); (E.J.L.); (K.H.); (A.H.); (B.M.J.); (S.S.); (J.L.); (V.G.)
| | - Ann Powers
- Department of Otolaryngology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (A.P.); (D.K.); (E.G.)
| | - Sonam Sharma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (D.R.D.); (E.J.L.); (K.H.); (A.H.); (B.M.J.); (S.S.); (J.L.); (V.G.)
| | - Jerry Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (D.R.D.); (E.J.L.); (K.H.); (A.H.); (B.M.J.); (S.S.); (J.L.); (V.G.)
| | - Vishal Gupta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (D.R.D.); (E.J.L.); (K.H.); (A.H.); (B.M.J.); (S.S.); (J.L.); (V.G.)
| | - Loren Mell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92110, USA;
| | - Zain Husain
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada;
| | - Diana Kirke
- Department of Otolaryngology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (A.P.); (D.K.); (E.G.)
| | - Krzysztof Misiukiewicz
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (K.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Marshall Posner
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (K.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Eric Genden
- Department of Otolaryngology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (A.P.); (D.K.); (E.G.)
| | - Richard L. Bakst
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (D.R.D.); (E.J.L.); (K.H.); (A.H.); (B.M.J.); (S.S.); (J.L.); (V.G.)
- Correspondence:
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11
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Silver JA, Turkdogan S, Roy CF, Subramaniam T, Henry M, Sadeghi N. De-Escalation Strategies for Human Papillomavirus-Associated Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma—Where Are We Now? Curr Oncol 2022; 29:3668-3697. [PMID: 35621685 PMCID: PMC9139371 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29050295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma has been increasing in North America due to human papillomavirus-associated disease. It is molecularly distinct and differs from other head and neck cancers due to the young population and high survival rate. The treatment regimens currently in place cause significant long-term toxicities. Studies have transitioned from mortality-based outcomes to patient-reported outcomes assessing quality of life. There are many completed and ongoing trials investigating alternative therapy regimens or de-escalation strategies to minimize the negative secondary effects while maintaining overall survival and disease-free survival. The goal of this review is to discuss the most recent advancements within the field while summarizing and reviewing the available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Silver
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada; (J.A.S.); (S.T.); (C.F.R.); (T.S.)
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada;
| | - Sena Turkdogan
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada; (J.A.S.); (S.T.); (C.F.R.); (T.S.)
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada;
| | - Catherine F. Roy
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada; (J.A.S.); (S.T.); (C.F.R.); (T.S.)
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada;
| | - Thavakumar Subramaniam
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada; (J.A.S.); (S.T.); (C.F.R.); (T.S.)
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada;
| | - Melissa Henry
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada;
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada
- Lady-Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
- Segal Cancer Centre, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Nader Sadeghi
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada; (J.A.S.); (S.T.); (C.F.R.); (T.S.)
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada;
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Center, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3JI, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-514-934-1934 (ext. 34974); Fax: +1-514-843-1403
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12
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Petrelli F, Luciani A, Ghidini A, Cherri S, Gamba P, Maddalo M, Bossi P, Zaniboni A. Treatment de-escalation for HPV+ oropharyngeal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Head Neck 2022; 44:1255-1266. [PMID: 35238114 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) related oropharyngeal carcinoma (OPC) carries a better prognosis compared with HPV-counterparts, thereby pushing the adoption of de-intensification treatment approaches as new strategies to preserve superior oncologic outcomes while minimizing toxicity. We evaluated the effect of treatment de-intensification in terms of overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), locoregional and distant control (LRC and DM) by selecting prospective or retrospective studies, providing outcome data with reduced intensification versus standard curative treatment in HPV+ OPC patients, with a systematic analysis till September 2020. The primary outcome of interest was OS. Secondary endpoints were PFS, LRC, and DM expressed as HR. A total of 55 studies (from 1393 screened references) were employed for quantitative synthesis for 38 929 patients. Among n = 48 studies with data available, de-intensified treatments reduced OS in HPV+ OPCs (HR = 1.33, 95% CI 1.17-1.52; p < 0.01). In de-escalated treatments, PFS was also decreased (HR = 2.11, 95% CI 1.65-2.69; p < 0.01). Compared with standard treatments, reduced intensity approaches were associated with reduced locoregional and distant disease control (HR = 2.51, 95% CI 1.75-3.59; p < 0.01; and HR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.25-2.9; p < 0.01). Chemoradiation improved survival in a definitive curative setting compared with radiotherapy alone (HR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.16-1.75; p < 0.01). When adjuvant treatments were compared, standard and de-escalation strategies provided similar OS. In conclusion, in patients with HPV+ OPC, de-escalation treatments should not be widely and agnostically adopted in clinical practice, as therein lies a concrete risk of offering a sub-optimal treatment to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sara Cherri
- Oncology Unit, Fondazione Poliambulanza, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Gamba
- Otolaryngology Unit, Fondazione Poliambulanza, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marta Maddalo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Brescia and Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Bossi
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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13
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Kowalchuk RO, Van Abel KM, Sauer AB, Yin LX, Garcia JJ, Harmsen WS, Moore EJ, Price DL, Chintakuntlawar AV, Price KR, Lester SC, Wittich MN, Patel SH, Foote RL, Ma DM, Nagelschneider AA, Routman DM. The number of radiographically positive lymph nodes further stratifies patient survival among clinical N1 patients with HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer. Adv Radiat Oncol 2022; 7:100926. [PMID: 35814859 PMCID: PMC9260100 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2022.100926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Human papillomavirus–associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV[+]OPSCC) requires further study to optimize the existing clinical staging system and guide treatment selection. We hypothesize that incorporation of the number of radiographically positive lymph nodes will further stratify patients with clinical N1 (cN1) HPV(+)OPSCC. Methods and Materials A post hoc analysis from 2 prospective clinical trials at a high-volume referral center was conducted. Patients underwent primary tumor resection and lymphadenectomy, followed by either standard-of-care radiation therapy (60 Gy in 30 fractions) with or without cisplatin (40 mg/m2 weekly) or de-escalated radiation therapy (30 Gy in 20 twice-daily fractions) with concomitant 15 mg/m2 docetaxel once weekly. Imaging studies were independently reviewed by a blinded neuroradiologist classifying radiographic extranodal extension (rENE) and the number and maximal size of involved lymph nodes. Patients without pathologic data available for assessment were excluded. Results A total of 260 patients were included. Of these, 216 (83%) were cN1. Patients had a median of 2 radiographically positive lymph nodes (range, 0-12), and 107 (41%) had rENE. For cN1 patients, stratifying by radiographically positive lymph nodes (1-2 vs 3-4 vs >4) was predictive of progression-free survival (PFS) (P = .017), with 2-year PFS rates of 96%, 88%, and 81%, respectively. More than 2 radiographically positive lymph nodes was identified as a significant threshold for PFS (P = .0055) and overall survival (P = .029). Radiographic ENE and lymph node size were not predictive of PFS among cN1 patients. Conclusions The number of radiographically positive lymph nodes is predictive of PFS and overall survival and could be used to meaningfully subcategorize cN1 patients with HPV(+)OPSCC. We recommend further validation of our proposal that cN1 patients with 1 to 2 radiologically positive lymph nodes be categorized as cN1a, patients with 3 to 4 radiologically positive lymph nodes categorized as cN1b, and patients with >4 radiographically positive lymph nodes categorized as cN1c.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Adam B. Sauer
- Department of Otolaryngology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Linda X. Yin
- Department of Otolaryngology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | | | - Eric J. Moore
- Department of Otolaryngology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Daniel L. Price
- Department of Otolaryngology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | | | - Scott C. Lester
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Samir H. Patel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | - Robert L. Foote
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Daniel M. Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - David M. Routman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
- Corresponding author: David M. Routman, MD.
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14
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Kowalchuk RO, Van Abel KM, Yin LX, Garcia J, Harmsen WS, Moore EJ, Price DL, Chintakuntlawar AV, Price KR, Lester SC, Neben Wittich M, Patel SH, Foote RL, Ma DM, Nagelschneider AA, Routman DM. Correlation between radiographic and pathologic lymph node involvement and extranodal extension via CT and PET in HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer. Oral Oncol 2021; 123:105625. [PMID: 34814068 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2021.105625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES Extranodal extension (ENE) and more than 4 pathologically involved lymph nodes (pN2) are critical prognostic factors in HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer (HPV(+) OPSCC). We analyze a patient cohort with HPV(+) OPSCC to determine the sensitivity and specificity of CT and PET/CT in identifying involvement of more than 4 lymph nodes (rN2) compared to pN2 and radiographic ENE (rENE) compared to pathologic ENE (pENE). MATERIALS/METHODS The dataset consisted of 261 patients enrolled in two prospective clinical trials. All imaging studies were independently reviewed by a blinded neuroradiologist, classifying the presence or absence of rENE and rN2. Secondary analyses included correlations of imaging accuracy and pathologic size of the primary tumor. RESULTS CT demonstrated sensitivity of 59%, specificity of 92%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 53%, negative predictive value (NPV) of 94%, and accuracy of 88% for pN2. PET/CT showed similar results. Patients with up to 4 involved lymph nodes (rN0-1) had a 93-94% chance of remaining pN0-1. CT and PET/CT identified an equal number of involved nodes in 81% of patients. CT demonstrated sensitivity of 54%, specificity of 71%, PPV of 72%, NPV of 53%, and accuracy of 62% for pENE. PET/CT showed similar outcomes. Notably, when multiple radiographic criteria were used to identify rENE, PPV increased for both CT (84%) and PET/CT (79%). CONCLUSION Patients with rN0-1 had a 93-94% chance of remaining pN0-1, suggesting rN0-1 could effectively stratify patients for clinical trials and treatment de-escalation. While CT and PET/CT were highly correlated, both showed low sensitivity for identifying pENE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman O Kowalchuk
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Radiation Oncology, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Kathryn M Van Abel
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Otolaryngology, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Linda X Yin
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Otolaryngology, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Joaquin Garcia
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Pathology, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - William S Harmsen
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Statistics, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Eric J Moore
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Otolaryngology, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Daniel L Price
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Otolaryngology, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | | | - Katharine R Price
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Medical Oncology, MN 55905, United States
| | - Scott C Lester
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Radiation Oncology, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | | | - Samir H Patel
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Radiation Oncology, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, United States
| | - Robert L Foote
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Radiation Oncology, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Daniel M Ma
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Radiation Oncology, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | | | - David M Routman
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Radiation Oncology, Rochester, MN 55905, United States.
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15
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Philips R, Sagheer H, Barsouk A, Swendseid B, Johnson J, Bar Ad V, Luginbuhl A, Curry J, Cognetti D. Trends in Adjuvant Therapy After Surgery for Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Laryngoscope 2021; 132:806-812. [PMID: 34553790 DOI: 10.1002/lary.29870] [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: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS We aim to 1) evaluate trends in adjuvant treatment of human papilloma virus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal cancer; 2) assess change in complications and functional outcomes over time; and 3) assess change in overall and disease-free survival (DFS) over time. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective analysis. METHODS Charts of patients who underwent transoral robotic surgery for HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer between 2011 and 2019 were reviewed. Trend analysis was used to compare rate of adjuvant treatment over time. The Kaplan-Meier method was conducted to analyze overall survival (OS) and DFS. RESULTS Three hundred and forty-two patients met inclusion criteria. One hundred and sixty-three (47.7%) patients underwent adjuvant radiation, and 90 (26.3%) patients underwent adjuvant chemoradiation. Rate of extranodular extension decreased significantly from 38.9% to 24.0% (P = .004). Rate of adjuvant therapy decreased significantly from 90.9% to 62.5% between 2011 and 2019 (P = .001). In patients who received adjuvant treatment, rate of adjuvant chemoradiation therapy decreased significantly from 40.0% to 20.0% (P < .0005). There was a decrease in rate of 1-year gastrostomy tube dependence in patients treated in 2015 to 2019 versus 2011 to 2014 (2.2% vs. 7.1%, P = .025). In 2011 to 2014, 2-year OS and DFS were 96% and 89%, respectively; in 2015 to 2019, 2-year OS and DFS were 96% and 94%, respectively. There was no difference in OS or DFS between the two time periods. CONCLUSIONS The rate of adjuvant therapy, particularly chemotherapy, has decreased over time. One-year gastrostomy tube dependence rate has decreased significantly from 2011 to 2014 to 2015 to 2019. There was no change in OS and DFS over this time period. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3 Laryngoscope, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramez Philips
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - Hamad Sagheer
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - Adam Barsouk
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - Brian Swendseid
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - Jennifer Johnson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - Voichita Bar Ad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - Adam Luginbuhl
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - Joseph Curry
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - David Cognetti
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
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16
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Ma DJ, Van Abel KM. Treatment De-intensification for HPV-associated Oropharyngeal Cancer: A Definitive Surgery Paradigm. Semin Radiat Oncol 2021; 31:332-338. [PMID: 34455988 DOI: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2021.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+OPSCC) constitutes the majority of head and neck diagnoses within the United States. Patients with HPV+OPSCC have biologically and demographically distinct disease, leading to high cure rates after standard treatments. This long survivorship period coupled with the toxicity of standard treatments makes de-intensification strategies an urgent research question. Surgery has generally been avoided for HPV+OPSCC as historical surgical techniques were invasive and morbid. With the advent of minimally invasive transoral techniques, definitive surgical options are becoming more popular. Minimally invasive surgery offers unique opportunities in a de-intensification paradigm, including more detailed patient selection, radiation volume reduction, and radiation dose de-intensification. Nevertheless, careful patient selection must be exercised as surgical defects may lead to quality of life decrements beyond what is gained through de-intensification. Ongoing phase III efforts will help clarify the patient cohorts best suited for surgically oriented de-intensification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
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17
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Rettig EM, Sethi RKV. Cancer of the Oropharynx and the Association with Human Papillomavirus. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2021; 35:913-931. [PMID: 34244016 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2021.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (OPC) consists of human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative disease caused by tobacco and alcohol use, and HPV-positive disease caused by the sexually transmitted infection HPV. These entities have unique but overlapping risk factors, epidemiologic trends, staging systems, and survival outcomes. HPV-positive tumor status confers a significant survival benefit compared with HPV-negative disease. OPC treatment entails a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Ongoing trials will determine whether treatment of HPV-related disease may be safely deintensified to decrease morbidity. Emerging HPV-related biomarkers are under study as tools to inform screening, diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance for HPV-positive OPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni M Rettig
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 45 Francis Street, ASB-2, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Center for Head and Neck Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Rosh K V Sethi
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 45 Francis Street, ASB-2, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Center for Head and Neck Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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18
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Ryan WR, Xu MJ, Ochoa E, Plonowska-Hirschfeld KA, Zebolsky AL, Ha PK, Bewley AF, Mallen-St Clair J, Joshi AS, Coffey CS, Faraji F, MacDonald BV, Houlton JJ, Gobillot TA, Curry JM, Philips R, Hackman TG, Richmon JD, Holcomb AJ, Coughlin AM, Panwar A, Smith RB, Herberg ME, Fakhry C, Cognetti DM. Oncologic outcomes of human papillomavirus-associated oropharynx carcinoma treated with surgery alone: A 12-institution study of 344 patients. Cancer 2021; 127:3092-3106. [PMID: 33957701 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The oncologic outcomes of surgery alone for patients with American Joint Committee on Cancer 7th edition (AJCC 7th) pN2a and pN2b human papillomavirus-associated oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+OPSCC) are not clear. METHODS The authors performed a 12-institution retrospective study of 344 consecutive patients with HPV+OPSCC (AJCC 7th pT0-3 N3 M0) treated with surgery alone with 6 months or more of follow-up using univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS The 2-year outcomes for the entire cohort were 91% (182 of 200) disease-free survival (DFS), 100% (200 of 200) disease-specific survival (DSS), and 98% (200 of 204) overall survival (OS). The 18 recurrences within 2 years were 88.9% (16 of 18) local and/or regional recurrences and 11.1% (2 of 18) distant metastases. Recurrences were not significantly associated with smoking, pT stage, or pN stage. The 16 patients with locoregional recurrences within 2 years all underwent successful salvage treatments (median follow-up after salvage: 13.1 months), 43.8% (7 of 16) of whom underwent salvage surgery alone for a 2-year overall salvage radiation need of 4.5% (9 of 200). The 2-year outcomes for the 59 evaluable patients among the 109 AJCC 7th pT0-2 N2a-N2b patients with 1 to 3 pathologic lymph nodes (LNs) were as follows: local recurrence, 3.4% (2 of 59); regional recurrence, 8.4% (5 of 59); distant metastases, 0%; DFS, 88.1% (52 of 59); DSS, 100% (59 of 59); OS, 96.7% (59 of 61); and salvage radiation, 5.1% (3 of 59). CONCLUSIONS With careful selection, surgery alone for AJCC 7th pT0-T2N0-N2b HPV+OPSCC with zero to 3 pathologic LNs without perineural invasion, extranodal extension, or positive margins results in high DFS, DSS, OS, and salvage treatment success. Because of the short-term follow-up, these data support further investigation of treatment de-escalation in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Ryan
- Division of Head and Neck Oncologic Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Mary J Xu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Edgar Ochoa
- School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | | | - Aaron L Zebolsky
- Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Michigan
| | - Patrick K Ha
- Division of Head and Neck Oncologic Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Arnaud F Bewley
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California
| | | | - Arjun S Joshi
- Division of Head and Neck Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
| | - Charles S Coffey
- Division of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Farhoud Faraji
- Division of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Bridget V MacDonald
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jeffrey J Houlton
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Theodore A Gobillot
- School of Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Joseph M Curry
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ramez Philips
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Trevor G Hackman
- Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jeremy D Richmon
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrew J Holcomb
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts.,Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, Nebraska Methodist Health System, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Andrew M Coughlin
- Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, Nebraska Methodist Health System, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Aru Panwar
- Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, Nebraska Methodist Health System, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Russell B Smith
- Section of Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Physicians, Baptist Medical Center, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Matthew E Herberg
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Carole Fakhry
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - David M Cognetti
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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