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Cao LM, Zhong NN, Chen Y, Li ZZ, Wang GR, Xiao Y, Liu XH, Jia J, Liu B, Bu LL. Less is more: Exploring neoadjuvant immunotherapy as a de-escalation strategy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treatment. Cancer Lett 2024; 598:217095. [PMID: 38964728 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217095] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) constitutes a significant global cancer burden, given its high prevalence and associated mortality. Despite substantial progress in survival rates due to the enhanced multidisciplinary approach to treatment, these methods often lead to severe tissue damage, compromised function, and potential toxicity. Thus, there is an imperative need for novel, effective, and minimally damaging treatment modalities. Neoadjuvant treatment, an emerging therapeutic strategy, is designed to reduce tumor size and curtail distant metastasis prior to definitive intervention. Currently, neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) has optimized the treatment approach for a subset of HNSCC patients, yet it has not produced a noticeable enhancement in overall survival (OS). In the contemporary cancer therapeutics landscape, immunotherapy is gaining traction at an accelerated pace. Notably, neoadjuvant immunotherapy (NAIT) has shown promising radiological and pathological responses, coupled with encouraging efficacy in several clinical trials. This potentially paves the way for a myriad of possibilities in treatment de-escalation of HNSCC, which warrants further exploration. This paper reviews the existing strategies and efficacies of neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), along with potential de-escalation strategies. Furthermore, the challenges encountered in the context of the de-escalation strategies of NAIT are explored. The aim is to inform future research directions that strive to improve the quality of life (QoL) for patients battling HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei-Ming Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Nian-Nian Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Yang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Zi-Zhan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Guang-Rui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Yao Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Xuan-Hao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Jun Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
| | - Bing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
| | - Lin-Lin Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
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Chen Y, Zhong NN, Cao LM, Liu B, Bu LL. Surgical margins in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A narrative review. Int J Surg 2024; 110:3680-3700. [PMID: 38935830 PMCID: PMC11175762 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000001306] [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: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a prevalent and frequently recurring malignancy, often necessitates surgical intervention. The surgical margin (SM) plays a pivotal role in determining the postoperative treatment strategy and prognostic evaluation of HNSCC. Nonetheless, the process of clinical appraisal and assessment of the SMs remains a complex and indeterminate endeavor, thereby leading to potential difficulties for surgeons in defining the extent of resection. In this regard, we undertake a comprehensive review of the suggested surgical distance in varying circumstances, diverse methods of margin evaluation, and the delicate balance that must be maintained between tissue resection and preservation in head and neck surgical procedures. This review is intended to provide surgeons with pragmatic guidance in selecting the most suitable resection techniques, and in improving patients' quality of life by achieving optimal functional and aesthetic restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology
| | - Nian-Nian Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology
| | - Lei-Ming Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology
| | - Bing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial – Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin-Lin Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial – Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
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3
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Lin X, Kang K, Chen P, Zeng Z, Li G, Xiong W, Yi M, Xiang B. Regulatory mechanisms of PD-1/PD-L1 in cancers. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:108. [PMID: 38762484 PMCID: PMC11102195 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02023-w] [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: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune evasion contributes to cancer growth and progression. Cancer cells have the ability to activate different immune checkpoint pathways that harbor immunosuppressive functions. The programmed death protein 1 (PD-1) and programmed cell death ligands (PD-Ls) are considered to be the major immune checkpoint molecules. The interaction of PD-1 and PD-L1 negatively regulates adaptive immune response mainly by inhibiting the activity of effector T cells while enhancing the function of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs), largely contributing to the maintenance of immune homeostasis that prevents dysregulated immunity and harmful immune responses. However, cancer cells exploit the PD-1/PD-L1 axis to cause immune escape in cancer development and progression. Blockade of PD-1/PD-L1 by neutralizing antibodies restores T cells activity and enhances anti-tumor immunity, achieving remarkable success in cancer therapy. Therefore, the regulatory mechanisms of PD-1/PD-L1 in cancers have attracted an increasing attention. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the roles of the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling in human autoimmune diseases and cancers. We summarize all aspects of regulatory mechanisms underlying the expression and activity of PD-1 and PD-L1 in cancers, including genetic, epigenetic, post-transcriptional and post-translational regulatory mechanisms. In addition, we further summarize the progress in clinical research on the antitumor effects of targeting PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies alone and in combination with other therapeutic approaches, providing new strategies for finding new tumor markers and developing combined therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Lin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- FuRong Laboratory, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Kuan Kang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- FuRong Laboratory, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Pan Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- FuRong Laboratory, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Guiyuan Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- FuRong Laboratory, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- FuRong Laboratory, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Mei Yi
- Department of Dermotology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Bo Xiang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- FuRong Laboratory, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China.
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
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Wu B, Zhang T, Dai N, Luo D, Wang X, Qiao C, Liu J. Global research trends in tongue cancer from 2000 to 2022: bibliometric and visualized analysis. Clin Oral Investig 2024; 28:130. [PMID: 38305810 DOI: 10.1007/s00784-024-05516-6] [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: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study conducts a systematic bibliometric analysis of tongue cancer publications to identify key topics, hotspots, and research distribution. METHODS We analyzed tongue cancer publications in the Web of Science core collection database, assessing their quantity and quality. We investigated contributors, including countries, affiliations, journals, authors, and categories, within collaborative networks. Additionally, we synthesized key research findings using various analytical techniques, such as alluvial flow, burstness analysis, cluster analysis, co-occurrence network of associations, and network layer overlay. RESULTS From 2000 to 2022, this bibliometric study covers 2205 articles and reviews across 617 journals, involving 72 countries, 2233 institutions, and 11,266 authors. It shows consistent growth, particularly in 2016. Key contributors include China (499 publications), Karolinska Institute (84 publications), Oral Oncology (144 publications), and Tuula Salo (47 publications). Other notable contributors are the USA (16,747 citations), the National Cancer Institute (NCI) (2597 citations), and the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) (2231 citations). Additionally, there are significant teams led by Tuula Salo and Dalianis. We have identified six primary clusters: #0 apoptosis, #1 depth of invasion, #2 radiotherapy, #3 hpv, #4 tongue cancer, #5 oral cancer. The top ten highly cited documents primarily pertain to epidemiology, prognostic indicators in early-stage oral tongue cancer, and HPV. Additionally, we observed 16 reference clusters, with depth of invasion (#3), young patients (#4), and tumor budding (#6) gaining prominence since 2012, indicating sustained research interests. CONCLUSIONS This analysis emphasizes the increasing scholarly interest in tongue cancer research. The bibliometric evaluation highlights pivotal recent research themes such as HPV, depth of invasion, tumor budding, and surgical margins. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The bibliometric analysis highlights the key topics and studies which have shaped the understanding and management of tongue cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beibei Wu
- Department of Information and TCM Big Data Innovation Lab of Beijing Office of Academic Research and Department of Oncology and Department of Scientific Research, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Xiyuan Hospital, Beijing, 10091, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Department of Information and TCM Big Data Innovation Lab of Beijing Office of Academic Research and Department of Oncology and Department of Scientific Research, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Xiyuan Hospital, Beijing, 10091, China
| | - Ning Dai
- Department of Information and TCM Big Data Innovation Lab of Beijing Office of Academic Research and Department of Oncology and Department of Scientific Research, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Xiyuan Hospital, Beijing, 10091, China
| | - Ding Luo
- Department of Information and TCM Big Data Innovation Lab of Beijing Office of Academic Research and Department of Oncology and Department of Scientific Research, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Xiyuan Hospital, Beijing, 10091, China
| | - Xuejie Wang
- Department of Information and TCM Big Data Innovation Lab of Beijing Office of Academic Research and Department of Oncology and Department of Scientific Research, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Xiyuan Hospital, Beijing, 10091, China
| | - Chen Qiao
- Department of Information and TCM Big Data Innovation Lab of Beijing Office of Academic Research and Department of Oncology and Department of Scientific Research, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Xiyuan Hospital, Beijing, 10091, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Information and TCM Big Data Innovation Lab of Beijing Office of Academic Research and Department of Oncology and Department of Scientific Research, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Xiyuan Hospital, Beijing, 10091, China.
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Xu P, Fang Q, Zhao Z, Cao F, Wu D, Liu X. Evaluation of neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with PD-1 inhibitors in patients with oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: a comparative study of antitumor activity. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:4209-4219. [PMID: 37837458 PMCID: PMC10991092 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03557-6] [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: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the antitumor activity of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in conjunction with PD-1 inhibitors (neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy) among patients with oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPHSCC) and compare its efficacy with neoadjuvant chemotherapy alone. METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis using data from patients diagnosed with OPHSCC and treated at the Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center between September 2012 and August 2022. We included patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy alone or combined with PD-1 inhibitors. We assessed the clinical response using the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors and evaluated progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). RESULTS Preliminary results demonstrate that neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy exhibited robust antitumor activity in OPHSCC, with an impressive overall response rate (ORR) of 81.0%. Complete response and partial response rates were 14.9% and 65.9%, respectively. Notably, neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy demonstrated superior PFS and OS to neoadjuvant chemotherapy alone. The 1-year PFS rate was 80.7%, and the 2-year rate was 61.1%. Additionally, the 1-year OS rate reached 92.3%. Finally, a multivariate analysis identified the American Joint Committee on Cancer stage reduction post-treatment as a favorable predictor of PFS. CONCLUSION Our results underscore the promising potential of neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy in enhancing antitumor activity in patients with OPHSCC. The robust ORR, along with improved PFS and OS, supports the utility of this combined approach. These results pave the way for further investigations to validate and refine the application of neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy in this challenging clinical context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Xu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Fang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Zhao
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Cao
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xuekui Liu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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Giannini L, Alliata A, Cristofaro V, Incandela F, Pompilio M, Ottini A, Cavalieri S, Nuzzolese I, Iacovelli NA, Franceschini M, Deganello A. Radiation-Induced Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Case Report and Review of the Literature. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:6708-6719. [PMID: 37504352 PMCID: PMC10378216 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30070492] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiation therapy (RT) is a mainstay for the treatment of head and neck (HN) cancers, with 80% of patients receiving such treatment. Radiation-induced malignancies represent a life-threatening long-term effect of RT, with an incidence of 0.5% to 15%. CASE DESCRIPTION After 13 years, a 33-year-old woman treated with chemo-radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma developed a locally advanced, radiation-induced, p16-negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) at the base of the tongue. Chemo/immunotherapy was administered as a first-line treatment. Given the optimal response and the feasibility of surgery, after three cycles, the patient underwent a total glossectomy, bilateral neck dissection, and reconstruction with a thoraco-dorsal free flap. A histological examination found SCC with a residual cancer burden of 70% and free margins. DISCUSSION The mechanisms responsible for carcinogenesis after RT are still not completely clear. Diagnosis may be challenging due to the previous treatment; growth patterns are unusual, and lymphotropism is lower. Prognosis is usually poor since surgical resectability is often not achievable. CONCLUSIONS Radiation-induced malignancies are difficult to treat. Patient management should always be discussed at a multidisciplinary level. Future research is needed to assess whether the promising results of clinical studies with pre-operative immunotherapy in locally advanced HN SCC patients may be translated into radiation-induced cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Giannini
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Maxillofacial, and Thyroid Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Alliata
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Maxillofacial, and Thyroid Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Cristofaro
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Maxillofacial, and Thyroid Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Fabiola Incandela
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Maxillofacial, and Thyroid Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Madia Pompilio
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Maxillofacial, and Thyroid Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Arianna Ottini
- Head and Neck Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Cavalieri
- Head and Neck Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Imperia Nuzzolese
- Head and Neck Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Marzia Franceschini
- Radiotherapy Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Deganello
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Maxillofacial, and Thyroid Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
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Taverna C, Franchi A. Role of Surgical Pathologist for Detection of Immunooncologic Predictive Factors in Head and Neck Cancer. Adv Anat Pathol 2023; 30:167-173. [PMID: 36175939 DOI: 10.1097/pap.0000000000000374] [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: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has shown promising results in the treatment of recurrent and metastatic head and neck cancers. Antiprogrammed cell death (PD)-1 therapies have been recently approved in this setting and they are currently tested also in the treatment of locally advanced diseases and in the neoadjuvant setting. However, the clinical benefits of these treatments have been quite variable, hence the need to select those patients who may obtain the maximal efficacy through the identification of predictive biomarkers. Currently, PD-L1 immunohistochemical expression by tumor and immune cells is the most widely used predictive biomarker for immunotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Nevertheless, patients with PD-L1 - tumors may still respond to treatments, thereby emphasizing the need for the identification of other predictive biomarkers. In this review, we summarize the current data on histologic and molecular parameters that can be used to select patients with head and neck cancers for immunotherapy, with a focus on squamous cell carcinoma and salivary gland carcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Taverna
- Department of Translational Research and of New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Ju W, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Sun J, Li J, Dong M, Sun Q, Shi W, Zhao T, Zhou Z, Huang Y, Zhou X, Zhu D, Dou S, Zhang Z, He Y, Zhang C, Xia R, Zhu G, Zhong L. Can adjuvant radiotherapy be omitted for oral cavity cancer patients who received neoadjuvant therapy and surgery? A retrospective cohort study. Int J Surg 2023; 109:879-886. [PMID: 36999830 PMCID: PMC10389426 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000000353] [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: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgery and postoperative adjuvant therapy comprise the standard treatment for locally advanced resectable oral squamous cell carcinoma (LAROSCC), while preoperative neoadjuvant therapy is being explored without sufficient confirmation of improved survival. De-escalation regimens after neoadjuvant therapy, such as those omitting adjuvant radiotherapy, may provide comparable or better outcomes, suggesting rigorous assessment of adjuvant therapy outcomes is needed in LAROSCC patients. The authors thus performed this retrospective study in LAROSCC patients who received neoadjuvant therapy and surgery, to compare the outcomes for overall survival (OS) and locoregional recurrence-free survival (LRFS) between the adjuvant radiotherapy (radio) and nonradiotherapy (nonradio) cohorts. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients diagnosed with LAROSCC who received neoadjuvant therapy and surgery were enrolled and divided into radio and nonradio cohorts to determine whether adjuvant radiotherapy could be omitted after neoadjuvant therapy and surgery. RESULTS From 2008 to 2021, 192 patients were enrolled. No significant differences were found in OS or LRFS between the radio and nonradio patient cohorts. The 10-year estimated OS rates were 58.9 versus 44.1% in radio versus nonradio cohorts, while 10-year estimated LRFS rates were 55.4 versus 48.2%, respectively. For clinical stage III patients, 10-year OS rates were 62.3 versus 62.6% (radio vs. nonradio), and estimated 10-year LRFS rates were 56.5 versus 60.7% (radio vs. nonradio). Multivariate Cox regression modeling of postoperative variables showed pathologic response of primary tumor and pathologic regional lymph nodes staging were associated with survival, while the adjuvant radiotherapy exposure was not included in the model due to nonsignificance. CONCLUSION These findings support further prospective evaluation of adjuvant radiotherapy omission, and suggest that de-escalation trials are warranted for LAROSCC surgery patients who received neoadjuvant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wutong Ju
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Yiyi Zhang
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Ying Liu
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | | | | | | | | | - Wentao Shi
- Biostatistics Office of Clinical Research Unit, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
| | - Tongchao Zhao
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Zhihang Zhou
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Yingying Huang
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Xinyu Zhou
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Dongwang Zhu
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Shengjin Dou
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Zhiyuan Zhang
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Yue He
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Chenping Zhang
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | | | - Guopei Zhu
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
| | - Laiping Zhong
- Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology
- National Center for Stomatology
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology
- Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
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9
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Nindra U, Hurwitz J, Forstner D, Chin V, Gallagher R, Liu J. A systematic review of neoadjuvant and definitive immunotherapy in locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Med 2023. [PMID: 36934434 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) require multi-modality treatment. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are now standard of care in management of recurrent/metastatic HNSCC. However, its role in the definitive and neoadjuvant setting remains unclear. METHODS A literature search was conducted that included all articles investigating ICI in untreated locally advanced (LA) HNSCC. Data was extracted and summarised and rated for quality using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. RESULTS Of 1086 records, 29 met the final inclusion criteria. In both concurrent and neoadjuvant settings, the addition of ICI was safe and did not delay surgery or reduce chemoradiotherapy completion. In the concurrent setting, although ICI use demonstrates objective responses in all published trials, there has not yet been published data to with PFS or OS benefit. In the neoadjuvant setting, combination ICI resulted in superior major pathological response rates compared to ICI monotherapy without a significant increase adverse event profiles, but its value in improving survival is not clear. ICI efficacy appears to be affected by tumour characteristics, in particular PD-L1 combined positive score, HPV status and the tumour microenvironment. CONCLUSIONS There is significant heterogeneity of ICI use in untreated LA HNSCC with multiple definitive concurrent and neoadjuvant protocols used. Resultantly, conclusions regarding the survival benefits of adding ICI to standard-of-care regimens cannot be made. Further trials and translational studies are required to elucidate optimal ICI sequencing in the definitive setting as well as better define populations more suited for neoadjuvant protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udit Nindra
- Department of Medical Oncology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Medical Oncology, Campbelltown Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Joshua Hurwitz
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dion Forstner
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia.,The University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia.,GenesisCare, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Venessa Chin
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia.,The University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia.,The Garvan Institute of Research, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard Gallagher
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia.,The University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia.,The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jia Liu
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia.,The University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia.,The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
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10
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Rao YJ, Goodman JF, Haroun F, Bauman JE. Integrating Immunotherapy into Multimodal Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030672. [PMID: 36765627 PMCID: PMC9913370 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030672] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have a poor prognosis, with a significant risk of progression or death despite multimodal treatment with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the programmed death receptor-1 (PD1) have dramatically changed the treatment landscape for recurrent/metastatic disease, improving overall survival in both the first- and second-line palliative settings. This success has driven the investigation of treatment strategies incorporating immunotherapy earlier into the multimodal curative-intent or salvage treatment of both locally advanced and recurrent/metastatic HNSCC. This review encompassed the following three subjects, with a focus on recently reported and ongoing clinical trials: (1) the use of neoadjuvant immunotherapy prior to surgery for locally advanced HNSCC, (2) the use of immunochemoradiotherapy for locally advanced head and neck cancers, and (3) novel uses of immunotherapy in the salvage of recurrent/metastatic HNSCC via a combined modality, including reirradiation paradigms. The results of these studies are eagerly awaited to improve patient outcomes in this challenging disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan James Rao
- Division of Radiation Oncology, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Joseph F. Goodman
- Division of Head and Neck Surgery, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Faysal Haroun
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Julie E. Bauman
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20037, USA
- Correspondence:
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11
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[Chemotherapy and targeted therapy of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas at the 2021 ASCO meeting]. HNO 2022; 70:265-270. [PMID: 35257190 DOI: 10.1007/s00106-022-01152-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This article summarizes new findings on chemo- and targeted therapy of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma presented at the 2021 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) conference. OBJECTIVE Relevant publications were evaluated and summarized. METHODS The abstract database of the 2021 ASCO conference was searched. Publications were selected if they focused on chemo- or targeted therapies in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Publications covered in other articles of this issue were omitted, as were study proposals without results. RESULTS The authors present six articles. Dosage and novel forms of application are shown for cisplatin. Cetuximab is used in the neoadjuvant setting and for progressive disease following immune therapy. Lastly, two new drugs in the form of liposomal irinotecan and the mHRAS inhibitor tipifarnib are discussed. CONCLUSION Patient-specific and possibly local application of cisplatin might be considered in the future. Moreover, mHRAS inhibition might also be useful for selected patients after sequencing.
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