Trends in head and neck cancers in England from 1995 to 2011 and projections up to 2025

PET-CT-guided, symptom-based, patient-initiated surveillance versus clinical follow-up in head neck cancer patients (PETNECK2): study protocol for a multicentre feasibility study and non-inferiority, randomised, phase III trial

BACKGROUND

Approximately 40% of treated head and neck cancer (HNC) patients develop recurrence. The risk of recurrence declines with time from treatment. Current guidelines recommend clinical follow-up every two months for the first two years after treatment, with reducing intensity over the next three years. However, evidence for the effectiveness of these regimes in detecting recurrence is lacking, with calls for more flexible, patient-centred follow-up strategies.

METHODS

PETNECK2 is a UK-based multi-centre programme examining a new paradigm of follow-up, using positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT)-guided, symptom-based, patient-initiated surveillance. This paradigm is being tested in a unblinded, non-inferiority, phase III, randomised controlled trial (RCT). Patients with HNC, one year after completing curative intent treatment, with no clinical symptoms or signs of loco-regional or distant metastasis will be randomised using a 1:1 allocation ratio to either regular scheduled follow-up, or to PET-CT guided, patient-initiated follow-up. Patients at a low risk of recurrence (negative PET-CT) will receive a face-to-face education session along with an Information and Support (I&S) resource package to monitor symptoms and be in control of initiating an urgent appointment when required. The primary outcome of the RCT is overall survival. The RCT also has an in-built pilot, a nested QuinteT Recruitment Intervention (QRI), and a nested mixed-methods study on patient experience and fear of cancer recurrence (FCR). An initial, single-arm feasibility study has been completed which determined the acceptability of the patient-initiated surveillance intervention, the completion rates of baseline questionnaires, and optimised the I&S resource prior to implementation in the RCT.

DISCUSSION

We hypothesise that combining an additional 12-month post-treatment PET-CT scan and I&S resource will both identify patients with asymptomatic recurrence and identify those at low risk of future recurrence who will be empowered to monitor their symptoms and seek early clinical follow-up when recurrence is suspected. This change to a patient-centred model of care may have effects on both quality of life and fear of cancer recurrence.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN: 13,709,798; 15-Oct-2021.

Navigating therapeutic strategies: HPV classification in head and neck cancer

The World Health Organisation recognised human papillomavirus (HPV) as the cause of multiple cancers, including head and neck cancers. HPV is a double-stranded DNA virus, and its viral gene expression can be controlled after infection by cellular and viral promoters. In cancer cells, the HPV genome is detected as either integrated into the host genome, episomal (extrachromosomal), or a mixture of integrated and episomal. Viral integration requires the breakage of both viral and host DNA, and the integration rate correlates with the level of DNA damage. Interestingly, patients with HPV-positive head and neck cancers generally have a good prognosis except for a group of patients with fully integrated HPV who show worst clinical outcomes. Those patients present with lowered expression of viral genes and limited infiltration of cytotoxic T cells. An impediment to effective therapy applications in the clinic is the sole testing for HPV positivity without considering the HPV integration status. This review will discuss HPV integration as a potential determinant of response to therapies in head and neck cancers and highlight to the field a novel therapeutic avenue that would reduce the cancer burden and improve patient survival.

Advances in testing for human papillomavirus -mediated head and neck cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

New evidence has recently emerged regarding the utility and benefits of dual p16 INKa (p16) and Human papillomavirus (HPV) status testing when determining the diagnosis and prognosis of patients with oropharyngeal cancer.

RECENT FINDINGS

HPV RNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the most accurate diagnostic test. The other assays (HPV DNA PCR, HPV DNA/RNA in-situ hybridization (ISH) and p16) applied to formalin fixed tumour tissue have varying but high sensitivities and specificities. Dual p16 and HPV testing identifies discordant (p16+/HPV- or p16-/HPV+) results in 9.2% of cases, who have significantly poorer prognoses than p16+/HPV+, particularly in smokers. The proportion of discordant cases varies by region, and appears to be highest in regions with lowest attributable (p16+/HPV+) fractions. Dual testing improves prognostication for oropharyngeal cancer cases by identifying discordant cases and improving the prognostic power of the Tumour Node Metastasis (TNM) classification, especially in regions with high discordant rates.

SUMMARY

Dual testing is essential when considering patients for clinical trials of treatment de-escalation, and may be important when counselling patients on prognosis, especially in regions with high discordant rates and in smokers.

Development of the 'ACT now & check-it-out' intervention to support patient-initiated follow up for Head and Neck cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

Current Head and Neck cancer (HNC) follow-up models are considered sub-optimal at detecting recurrences. We describe the development of a patient-initiated follow up (PIFU) trial intervention support package, to support HNC patients to engage in PIFU self-care behaviors.

METHODS

An intervention mapping approach, informed by evidence synthesis, theory and stakeholder consultation, guided intervention development. Data sources included a patient survey (n = 144), patient interviews (n = 30), 7 workshops with patients (n = 25) and caregivers (n = 3) and 5 workshops with health professionals (n = 21).

RESULTS

The intervention ('ACT now & check-it-out') comprises an education and support session with a health professional and an app and/or a booklet for patients. The main targets for change in patient self-care behaviors were: assessing what is normal for them; regularly checking for symptom changes; prompt help-seeking for persistent/new symptoms; self-management of fear of recurrence; engaging with the intervention over time.

CONCLUSIONS

We have developed an evidence, person and theory-based intervention to support PIFU self-care behaviors in HNC patients.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

A trial is underway to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the intervention. If successful, this intervention could be adapted for patients with other cancers or diseases, which is important given the recent shift towards PIFU pathways.

Developing and Validating a Multivariable Prognostic-Predictive Classifier for Treatment Escalation of Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The PREDICTR-OPC Study

PURPOSE

While there are several prognostic classifiers, to date, there are no validated predictive models that inform treatment selection for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).Our aim was to develop clinical and/or biomarker predictive models for patient outcome and treatment escalation for OPSCC.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

We retrospectively collated clinical data and samples from a consecutive cohort of OPSCC cases treated with curative intent at ten secondary care centers in United Kingdom and Poland between 1999 and 2012. We constructed tissue microarrays, which were stained and scored for 10 biomarkers. We then undertook multivariable regression of eight clinical parameters and 10 biomarkers on a development cohort of 600 patients. Models were validated on an independent, retrospectively collected, 385-patient cohort.

RESULTS

A total of 985 subjects (median follow-up 5.03 years, range: 4.73-5.21 years) were included. The final biomarker classifier, comprising p16 and survivin immunohistochemistry, high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in situ hybridization, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, predicted benefit from combined surgery + adjuvant chemo/radiotherapy over primary chemoradiotherapy in the high-risk group [3-year overall survival (OS) 63.1% vs. 41.1%, respectively, HR = 0.32; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.16-0.65; P = 0.002], but not in the low-risk group (HR = 0.4; 95% CI, 0.14-1.24; P = 0.114). On further adjustment by propensity scores, the adjusted HR in the high-risk group was 0.34, 95% CI = 0.17-0.67, P = 0.002, and in the low-risk group HR was 0.5, 95% CI = 0.1-2.38, P = 0.384. The concordance index was 0.73.

CONCLUSIONS

We have developed a prognostic classifier, which also appears to demonstrate moderate predictive ability. External validation in a prospective setting is now underway to confirm this and prepare for clinical adoption.

Poor oral health influences head and neck cancer patient survival: an International Head and Neck Cancer Epidemiology Consortium pooled analysis

BACKGROUND

Poor oral health has been identified as a prognostic factor potentially affecting the survival of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. However, evidence to date supporting this association has emanated from studies based on single cohorts with small-to-modest sample sizes.

METHODS

Pooled analysis of 2449 head and neck squamous cell carcinoma participants from 4 studies of the International Head and Neck Cancer Epidemiology Consortium included data on periodontal disease, tooth brushing frequency, mouthwash use, numbers of natural teeth, and dental visits over the 10 years prior to diagnosis. Multivariable generalized linear regression models were used and adjusted for age, sex, race, geographic region, tumor site, tumor-node-metastasis stage, treatment modality, education, and smoking to estimate risk ratios (RR) of associations between measures of oral health and overall survival.

RESULTS

Remaining natural teeth (10-19 teeth: RR = 0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.69 to 0.95; ≥20 teeth: RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.78 to 0.99) and frequent dental visits (>5 visits: RR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.66 to 0.91) were associated with better overall survival. The inverse association with natural teeth was most pronounced among patients with hypopharyngeal and/or laryngeal, and not otherwise specified head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The association with dental visits was most pronounced among patients with oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Patient-reported gingival bleeding, tooth brushing, and report of ever use of mouthwash were not associated with overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Good oral health as defined by maintenance of the natural dentition and frequent dental visits appears to be associated with improved overall survival among head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients.

A microfluidic organ-on-a-chip: into the next decade of bone tissue engineering applied in dentistry

A comprehensive understanding of the complex physiological and pathological processes associated with alveolar bones, their responses to different therapeutics strategies, and cell interactions with biomaterial becomes necessary in precisely treating patients with severe progressive periodontitis, as a bone-related issue in dentistry. However, existing monolayer cell culture or pre-clinical models have been unable to mimic the complex physiological, pathological and regeneration processes in the bone microenvironment in response to different therapeutic strategies. In this point, 'organ-on-a-chip' (OOAC) technology, specifically 'alveolar-bone-on-a-chip', is expected to resolve the problems by better imitating infection site microenvironment and microphysiology within the oral tissues. The OOAC technology is assessed in this study toward better approaches in disease modeling and better therapeutics strategy for bone tissue engineering applied in dentistry.

Lead Time to Recurrence After Posttreatment Plasma and Saliva HPV DNA Testing in Patients With Low-Risk HPV Oropharynx Cancer

Importance

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is a highly lethal cancer that is often associated with human papillomavirus (HPV). Recent studies have shown promise in the use of HPV DNA detection in salivary rinses and plasma as a factor associated with a future diagnosis of HPV-positive oropharynx cancer (HPVOPC). However, the use of plasma and salivary HPV DNA detection in defining risk for recurrence in the context of a prospective, phase 3, clinical trial coupled with standardized clinical surveillance has not been reported.

Objective

To identify patients with low-risk HPVOPC at risk for recurrence by detection of HPV16 DNA in plasma and salivary rinses.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cohort study, 233 low-risk patients were recruited from 32 head and neck treatment centers in Ireland (1 [3.1%]), the Netherlands (1 [3.1%]), and the UK (30 [93.8%]) as part of the DE-ESCALATE HPV trial, an open-label, phase 3 randomized clinical trial examining treatment with cetuximab vs cisplatin for HPVOPC. Patients were assayed for the presence of HPV16 DNA in plasma and salivary rinse via a quantitative polymerase chain reaction-based assay.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Assay results were associated with risk of recurrence and lead time from HPV16 DNA detection to recurrence.

Results

Of 233 patients, 45 (19.3%) were women, and the mean (SD) age was 57.01 (8.45) years. A total 1040 salivary or blood samples were collected during the course of the study. With a median follow-up of 760 days, the sensitivity and specificity of combined plasma and salivary rinse HPV DNA assays for detecting recurrence were 65% and 87%, respectively. There was a median lead time of positive test to event/recurrence date of 19 days (range, 0-536 days) and mean (SD) of 122 (169.8) days.

Conclusion and Relevance

The results of this cohort study suggest that in the setting of a randomized, prospective, phase 3 trial for low-risk patients with HPVOPC, posttreatment presence of HPV DNA in plasma and salivary rinses is associated with recurrence; a lead time between test positivity and clinical recurrence offers a potential opportunity for earlier detection of recurrence.

Interventions for the treatment of oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers: surgical treatment

BACKGROUND

Surgery is a common treatment option in oral cavity cancer (and less frequently in oropharyngeal cancer) to remove the primary tumour and sometimes neck lymph nodes. People with early-stage disease may undergo surgery alone or surgery plus radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy/biotherapy, or a combination of these. Timing and extent of surgery varies. This is the third update of a review originally published in 2007.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the relative benefits and harms of different surgical treatment modalities for oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers.

SEARCH METHODS

We used standard, extensive Cochrane search methods. The latest search date was 9 February 2022.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared two or more surgical treatment modalities, or surgery versus other treatment modalities, for primary tumours of the oral cavity or oropharynx.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Our primary outcomes were overall survival, disease-free survival, locoregional recurrence, and recurrence; and our secondary outcomes were adverse effects of treatment, quality of life, direct and indirect costs to patients and health services, and participant satisfaction. We used standard Cochrane methods. We reported survival data as hazard ratios (HRs). For overall survival, we reported the HR of mortality, and for disease-free survival, we reported the combined HR of new disease, progression, and mortality; therefore, HRs below 1 indicated improvement in these outcomes. We used GRADE to assess certainty of evidence for each outcome.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified four new trials, bringing the total number of included trials to 15 (2820 participants randomised, 2583 participants analysed). For objective outcomes, we assessed four trials at high risk of bias, three at low risk, and eight at unclear risk. The trials evaluated nine comparisons; none compared different surgical approaches for excision of the primary tumour. Five trials evaluated elective neck dissection (ND) versus therapeutic (delayed) ND in people with oral cavity cancer and clinically negative neck nodes. Elective ND compared with therapeutic ND probably improves overall survival (HR 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50 to 0.83; I2 = 0%; 4 trials, 883 participants; moderate certainty) and disease-free survival (HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.70; I2 = 12%; 5 trials, 954 participants; moderate certainty), and probably reduces locoregional recurrence (HR 0.58, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.78; I2 = 0%; 4 trials, 458 participants; moderate certainty) and recurrence (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.70; I2 = 0%; 3 trials, 633 participants; moderate certainty). Elective ND is probably associated with more adverse events (risk ratio (RR) 1.31, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.54; I2 = 0%; 2 trials, 746 participants; moderate certainty). Two trials evaluated elective radical ND versus elective selective ND in people with oral cavity cancer, but we were unable to pool the data as the trials used different surgical procedures. Neither study found evidence of a difference in overall survival (pooled measure not estimable; very low certainty). We are unsure if there is a difference in effect on disease-free survival (HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.29 to 1.11; 1 trial, 104 participants; very low certainty) or recurrence (RR 1.21, 95% CI 0.63 to 2.33; 1 trial, 143 participants; very low certainty). There may be no difference between the interventions in terms of adverse events (1 trial, 148 participants; low certainty). Two trials evaluated superselective ND versus selective ND, but we were unable to use the data. One trial evaluated supraomohyoid ND versus modified radical ND in 332 participants. We were unable to use any of the primary outcome data. The evidence on adverse events was very uncertain, with more complications, pain, and poorer shoulder function in the modified radical ND group. One trial evaluated sentinel node biopsy versus elective ND in 279 participants. There may be little or no difference between the interventions in overall survival (HR 1.00, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.11; low certainty), disease-free survival (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.07; low certainty), or locoregional recurrence (HR 1.04, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.19; low certainty). The trial provided no usable data for recurrence, and reported no adverse events (very low certainty). One trial evaluated positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) following chemoradiotherapy (with ND only if no or incomplete response) versus planned ND (before or after chemoradiotherapy) in 564 participants. There is probably no difference between the interventions in overall survival (HR 0.92, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.31; moderate certainty) or locoregional recurrence (HR 1.00, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.06; moderate certainty). One trial evaluated surgery plus radiotherapy versus radiotherapy alone and provided very low-certainty evidence of better overall survival in the surgery plus radiotherapy group (HR 0.24, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.59; 35 participants). The data were unreliable because the trial stopped early and had multiple protocol violations. In terms of adverse events, subcutaneous fibrosis was more frequent in the surgery plus radiotherapy group, but there were no differences in other adverse events (very low certainty). One trial evaluated surgery versus radiotherapy alone for oropharyngeal cancer in 68 participants. There may be little or no difference between the interventions for overall survival (HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.09 to 7.46; low certainty) or disease-free survival (HR 1.07, 95% CI 0.27 to 4.22; low certainty). For adverse events, there were too many outcomes to draw reliable conclusions. One trial evaluated surgery plus adjuvant radiotherapy versus chemotherapy. We were unable to use the data for any of the outcomes reported (very low certainty).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found moderate-certainty evidence based on five trials that elective neck dissection of clinically negative neck nodes at the time of removal of the primary oral cavity tumour is superior to therapeutic neck dissection, with increased survival and disease-free survival, and reduced locoregional recurrence. There was moderate-certainty evidence from one trial of no difference between positron emission tomography (PET-CT) following chemoradiotherapy versus planned neck dissection in terms of overall survival or locoregional recurrence. The evidence for each of the other seven comparisons came from only one or two studies and was assessed as low or very low-certainty.

Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Prevention of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a group of malignancies, involving the oral cavity, pharynx, hypopharynx, larynx, nasal cavity, and salivary glands, that together compose the seventh most common cancer diagnosis worldwide. With 890,000 new cases and 450,000 deaths annually per GLOBOCAN estimates, HNSCC accounts for roughly 4.5% of cancer diagnoses and deaths. In the developing world, the incidence of HNSCC is growing with increasing consumption of tobacco (smoked or chewed), alcohol, and areca nut (betel quid). Alcohol and tobacco have a synergistic effect, with the heavy consumption of both increasing HNSCC risk 40-fold. In developed nations, HPV-related HNSCC surpasses tobacco- and alcohol-related disease. HPV-related HNSCC more commonly affects the oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx than the oral cavity, and is associated with a significantly longer median survival (130 months vs. 20 months). Discrepancies in etiology as well as disparities in lifestyle choices and access to healthcare may account for the greater incidence and poorer survival of HNSCC among minority and lower-socioeconomic-status communities in developed nations. Pharmacotherapy and counseling together have been shown to be effective in promoting smoking and alcohol cessation. Education on cancer risk and community engagement have reduced areca nut consumption in Asia as well as in diaspora communities. HPV vaccination, starting at age 11-12 for both sexes, has been shown to reduce the prevalence of high-risk HPV serologies and prevent pre-cancerous lesions of the cervix, vagina, and vulva. As of 2020, 58.6% of eligible adolescents in the US have received the full two-vaccine series. Increased adoption of vaccination, education on safe sex practices, and routine visual oral screening for high-risk patients would curb growing HNSCC incidence in developed nations.

Patient and physiotherapist perceptions of the Getting Recovery Right After Neck Dissection (GRRAND) rehabilitation intervention: a qualitative interview study embedded within a feasibility trial

OBJECTIVE

The Getting Recovery Right After Neck Dissection (GRRAND) intervention is a physiotherapy programme for patients with head and neck cancer who have undergone neck dissection. The aim of this qualitative study was to understand if the intervention was useful, acceptable and whether it was feasible to conduct a randomised controlled trial (RCT).

DESIGN

This qualitative study was embedded within the GRRAND-Feasibility (GRRAND-F) Study.

SETTING

Participants were recruited from four acute National Health Service hospitals in England between 2020 and 2021.

PARTICIPANTS

We interviewed four usual care and four intervention patient-participants from a single study site (Oxford). Six were male, two were female. All were white British ethnicity. We interviewed two physiotherapists from Oxford who delivered the GRRAND-F intervention, and physiotherapists from Birmingham, Poole and Norwich who were trained to deliver the intervention but were not able to deliver it within the study time frame.

RESULTS

The analysis identified five themes: (1) Acceptability, (2) Adherence, (3) Outcomes, (4) Feasibility and (5) Stand-alone themes (prehabilitation, video consultations, healthcare use).Patient-participants and physiotherapist-participants agreed that usual care was not meeting patients' rehabilitation needs. The GRRAND intervention provided biopsychosocial support. In comparison to the usual care group, patient-participants who received the intervention were more confident that they could perform rehabilitation exercises and were more motivated to engage in long-term adaptive behaviour change. Physiotherapists felt they needed more administrative support to participate in an RCT.

CONCLUSION

Participants felt that usual care was insufficient. GRRAND provided much needed, biopsychosocial support to patients. Participants were supportive that it would be feasible to test GRRAND in an RCT.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN11979997.

Reviewing the epidemiology of head and neck cancer: definitions, trends and risk factors

Introduction Head and neck cancer appears to be increasing in incidence, with potential changes in aetiology proposed. This paper aims to provide a narrative overview of the epidemiological literature to describe the disease burden and trends in terms of incidence and mortality both in the UK and globally and to review the evidence on current risk factors.

Methods A search was performed on multiple databases (PubMed and Epistemonikos), applying filters to identify systematic reviews and meta-analyses which investigated head and neck cancer incidence, mortality and risk factors. International and UK cancer registries and sources were searched for incidence and mortality data.

Results Multiple definitions of head and neck cancer are employed in epidemiology. Globally, incidence rates have increased in recent decades, largely driven by oropharyngeal cancer. Mortality rates over the last decade have also started to rise, reflecting the disease incidence and static survival rates. Major risk factors include tobacco smoking alone and in combination with alcohol consumption, betel chewing (particularly in Southeast Asian populations) and the human papillomavirus in oropharyngeal cancer.

Conclusions These epidemiological data can inform clinical and preventive service planning for head and neck cancer.

Head and neck cancer incidence is increasing and is projected to continue to rise, largely driven by increases in oropharyngeal cancer.

Mortality rates have started to increase within the last decade, reflecting a rising incidence and static survival rates.

Major risk factors that are associated with the risk of head and neck cancer are tobacco smoking and tobacco used in combination with alcohol consumption. Human papillomavirus is an additional major risk factor for oropharyngeal cancer. Cancers of the head and neck are clearly socioeconomically patterned but this socioeconomic risk is not entirely explained by smoking and alcohol behaviours.

The epidemiology of oral cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic in Northern Italy: Incidence, survival, prevalence

Despite novel treatment approaches, oral cancer survival has not improved significantly and the disease often presents a disabling path for patients. The aim of this work was to describe the epidemiological data of oral cancers in a province of northern Italy. Incident cases in the period 1996–2020 and EU population standardized rates were reported for Oral Cavity cancer (OC) and OroPharyngeal cancer (OP). Annual percent changes (APC) were estimated with joint point analysis. The 5-year survival was calculated in three different periods: 1996–2000, 2001–2010 and 2011–2015. From 1996 to 2020, 771 cases of oral cancers (442 OC and 329 OP) were recorded with the age-standardized incidence rate 7.28 (10.74 in males and 3.97 in females): 3.82 for OC and 3.47 for OP. In males there is a significant increase in the incidence of OP up to 2017 (APC 11; 95% CI, 4.9–17.5), which then decreases; in females the rates are constant. In 2020 (the era of Covid-19), we did not see a decline in incidence compared to 2019. The 5-year survival (for cases diagnosed in 2011–2015) was 55.6%, 56.5% and 56% for OC, OP and OC + OP, respectively; it was somewhat higher in females and was undergoing some changes over the course of years. The number of prevalent cases as of 1 January 2021 is 314 (175 OC, 139 OP). The study showed a decline in cancers in men, particularly for OP; survival shows improvement in the long-term examined; Covid-19 had no negative impact on 2020 diagnoses.

CircSERPINA3 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma by targeting miR-885-5p

CircSERPINA3 has been shown to be upregulated in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC); however, whether it regulates the development of LSCC and the specific molecular mechanism remains unclear, which is to be explored in this study. Expressions of circSERPINA3, miR-885-5p, and Malic enzyme 1 (ME1) in LSCC tissues or cell lines were determined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The regulation of circSERPINA3 on the biological behavior of LSCC cells was confirmed by loss and gain experiments (cell counting kit-8, transwell, and colony formation assay). The correlation between circSERPINA3/ME1 and miR-885-5p was predicted and confirmed by bioinformatics analysis, dual-luciferase reporter assay, and qRT-PCR. The effect of circSERPINA3/miR-885-5p axis on the biological behavior of LSCC cells and expressions of epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related proteins was confirmed by rescue experiments. CircSERPINA3 and ME1 was upregulated in LSCC tissues, whereas miR-885-5p was downregulated. MiR-885-5p was the target gene of circSERPINA3, whereas ME1 was the target gene of miR-885-5p. Silent circSERPINA3 suppressed viability, invasion, migration, colony formation, and expression of ME1, claudin-4, snail, and vimentin but elevated expression of miR-885-5p and E-cadherin, whereas overexpressed circSERPINA3 was the opposite. However, miR-885-5p inhibitor or mimic reversed the effects of silent circSERPINA3 or overexpressed circSERPINA3. Collectively, circSERPINA3 promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of LSCC cells by targeting miR-885-5p.

Comparison of Different Machine Models Based on Multi-Phase Computed Tomography Radiomic Analysis to Differentiate Parotid Basal Cell Adenoma From Pleomorphic Adenoma

Objective

This study explored the value of different radiomic models based on multiphase computed tomography in differentiating parotid pleomorphic adenoma (PA) and basal cell tumor (BCA) concerning the predominant phase and the optimal radiomic model.

Methods

This study enrolled 173 patients with pathologically confirmed parotid tumors (training cohort: n=121; testing cohort: n=52). Radiomic features were extracted from the nonenhanced, arterial, venous, and delayed phases CT images. After dimensionality reduction and screening, logistic regression (LR), K-nearest neighbor (KNN) and support vector machine (SVM) were applied to develop radiomic models. The optimal radiomic model was selected by using ROC curve analysis. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression was performed to analyze clinical-radiological characteristics and to identify variables for developing a clinical model. A combined model was constructed by integrating clinical and radiomic features. Model performances were assessed by ROC curve analysis.

Results

A total of 1036 radiomic features were extracted from each phase of CT images. Sixteen radiomic features were considered valuable by dimensionality reduction and screening. Among radiomic models, the SVM model of the arterial and delayed phases showed superior predictive efficiency and robustness (AUC, training cohort: 0.822, 0.838; testing cohort: 0.752, 0.751). The discriminatory capability of the combined model was the best (AUC, training cohort: 0.885; testing cohort: 0.834).

Conclusions

The diagnostic performance of the arterial and delayed phases contributed more than other phases. However, the combined model demonstrated excellent ability to distinguish BCA from PA, which may provide a non-invasive and efficient method for clinical decision-making.

Management of Older Adults with Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer

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.

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

AIMS

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

MATERIALS AND METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Genomic and Molecular Profiling of Human Papillomavirus Associated Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treated with Immune Checkpoint Blockade Compared to Survival Outcomes

Simple Summary

The prognosis of recurrent and/or metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains poor. However, human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) patients live longer than those that are negative for HPV infection. In addition, some R/M HNSCC patients respond well to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies including pembrolizumab and nivolumab, but whether HPV infection is correlated with a good response to ICB is unclear. Here we attempt to understand if ICB treatment improves survival outcomes of HPV and/or surrogate marker p16−positive OPSCC and non-OP HNSCC. We also investigate other potential biomarkers and mutations that may predict improved response to ICB in both HPV−positive and -negative HNSCC patients. With better biomarkers, future treatment can be better tailored to individual patients to improve survival.

Abstract

Recurrent/metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients overall have a poor prognosis. However, human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated R/M oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is associated with a better prognosis compared to HPV−negative disease. Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) is the standard of care for R/M HNSCC. However, whether HPV and its surrogate marker, p16, portend an improved response to ICB remains controversial. We queried the Caris Life Sciences CODEai database for p16+ and p16− HNSCC patients using p16 as a surrogate for HPV. A total of 2905 HNSCC (OPSCC, n = 948) cases were identified. Of those tested for both HPV directly and p16, 32% (251/791) were p16+ and 28% (91/326) were HPV+. The most common mutation in the OPSCC cohort was TP53 (33%), followed by PIK3CA (17%) and KMT2D (10.6%). TP53 mutations were more common in p16− (49%) versus the p16+ group (10%, p < 0.0005). Real-world overall survival (rwOS) was longer in p16+ compared to p16− OPSCC patients, 33.3 vs. 19.1 months (HR = 0.597, p = 0.001), as well as non-oropharyngeal (non-OP) HNSCC patients (34 vs. 17 months, HR 0.551, p = 0.0001). There was no difference in the time on treatment (TOT) (4.2 vs. 2.8 months, HR 0.796, p = 0.221) in ICB-treated p16+ vs. p16− OPSCC groups. However, p16+ non-OP HNSCC patients treated with ICB had higher TOT compared to the p16− group (4.3 vs. 3.3 months, HR 0.632, p = 0.016), suggesting that p16 may be used as a prognostic biomarker in non-OP HNSCC, and further investigation through prospective clinical trials is warranted.

Current Knowledge and Awareness of Healthcare Professionals of Oral Cancer: a Study at a UK District General Hospital

The aim of this study was to assess the levels of awareness of oral cancer in healthcare staff at a district general hospital in the UK. This excluded those staff involved in head and neck cancer management. The study identified the areas where there was a deficiency in knowledge and quantified any differences across the professions. Following a literature review utilising the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Healthcare Databases Advanced Research (HDAS) tool, a questionnaire was designed, which was piloted amongst healthcare professionals on one ward. The feedback from the respondents was used to test the suitability of the survey format and modified before implementation across the hospital. One hundred fifty-five completed surveys were collected. The respondents were divided into doctors, nursing staff, and healthcare assistants (HCAs). There were generally low to middle levels of subjective individual confidence in identifying oral cancer. There was confusion on the clinical signs of oral cancer, with 29% of respondents believing that toothache was a sign. Almost half of all the respondents believed that dental decay was a risk factor for oral cancer. Although the significance of an early diagnosis was recognised as being important, a number of respondents were not aware of the likely differences in morbidity and mortality based on the stage of disease on diagnosis. This study has demonstrated that the healthcare workforce has gaps in knowledge both in of the presentation of oral cancer and the morbidity and mortality associated with a delay in diagnosis. Further learning opportunities for all healthcare staff will help to reduce future disease burden.

HPV status and therapeutic initial strategy impact on survival and oncologic outcomes: 5-year results from the multicentric prospective cohort of oropharyngeal cancers Papillophar

PURPOSE

After the 2 years of follow-up, we aimed to evaluate at 5 years the impact of human papillomavirus (HPV) status, tobacco, and initial treatment approach on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients with oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) in France.

METHODS

Papillophar study was designed as a prospective cohort of 340 OPC patients in 14 French hospitals. HPV-positive status (21.7%) was defined with PCR (positivity for HPV DNA and E6/E7 mRNA). Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the relationship between PFS, OS, HPV, and other prognostic factors. The combined effect of HPV status with smoking, stage, or initial treatment on PFS was also evaluated.

RESULTS

HPV-pos patients had better PFS than HPV-neg patients (HR = 0.46; 95% CI: 0.29-0.74), and worse for older patients (HR for 5-year age increase = 1.14), UICC stage 4 from the 7th TNM classification compared to stage 1-2 (HR = 2.58; CI: 1.33-5.00), and those having had radiotherapy (HR = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.36-3.16) or induction chemotherapy (HR = 2.11; 95% CI: 1.32-3.38) instead of upfront surgery. HPV-neg patients encountered a larger incidence of loco-regional disease than HPV-pos patients (31.5% and 14.0%, respectively, p = 0.0001). Distant metastases proportion was similar. HPV-neg patients developed more second primary tumor than HPV-pos patients (11.7% vs. 3.3%, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

5-year follow-up confirms the specifically improved prognosis in HPV-positive patients. The prognosis is nevertheless significantly modified through clinical and therapeutical variations.

Should the HPV positive oropharyngeal cancer patient be considered for a two-stage dental assessment for their radiation treatment?

Patients due to commence head and neck radiation treatment are expected to undergo a dental assessment and be deemed 'dentally fit'. Though this intervention is welcomed by the dental fraternity it is not without its challenges especially in human papilloma virus (HPV) related oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) which has seen a phenomenal rise over the past decade. This perspective piece presents these challenges and proposes a potential adaption of the dental assessment for HPV OPC patients though not necessarily exclusive to this tumour sub-site.

Immune-related adverse events are associated with improved response, progression-free survival, and overall survival for patients with head and neck cancer receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors

BACKGROUND

The authors hypothesized that patients developing immune-related adverse events (irAEs) while receiving immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) for recurrent/metastatic head and neck cancer (HNC) would have improved oncologic outcomes.

METHODS

Patients with recurrent/metastatic HNC received ICI at 2 centers. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression, Kaplan-Meier methods, and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to associate the irAE status with the overall response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) in cohort 1 (n = 108). These outcomes were also analyzed in an independent cohort of patients receiving ICI (cohort 2; 47 evaluable for irAEs).

RESULTS

The median follow-up was 8.4 months for patients treated in cohort 1. Sixty irAEs occurred in 49 of 108 patients with 5 grade 3 or higher irAEs (10.2%). ORR was higher for irAE+ patients (30.6%) in comparison with irAE- patients (12.3%; P = .02). The median PFS was 6.9 months for irAE+ patients and 2.1 months for irAE- patients (P = .0004), and the median OS was 12.5 and 6.8 months, respectively (P = .007). Experiencing 1 or more irAEs remained associated with ORR (P = .03), PFS (P = .003), and OS (P = .004) in multivariate analyses. The association between development of irAEs and prolonged OS persisted in a 22-week landmark analysis (P = .049). The association between development of irAEs and favorable outcomes was verified in cohort 2.

CONCLUSIONS

The development of irAEs was strongly associated with an ICI benefit, including overall response, PFS, and OS, in 2 separate cohorts of patients with recurrent/metastatic HNC.

Awareness of the link between human papillomavirus and oral cancer in UK university students

Awareness of the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and oral cancer varies across populations. Levels of awareness and factors may impact HPV vaccine uptake in women and the intent to obtain the vaccine in men if it becomes available. A cross-sectional survey of 1415 UK university students (495 men and 920 women) aged 18-25 years was conducted. Women who had and had not received the HPV vaccine were included. Vaccination was not available for men at the time of the survey. Seventy percent of participants had heard of oral cancer but only 25% were aware of the link between HPV and oral cancer. Women who ever engaged in sexual activity (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 1.74; 95% CI: 1.12-2.72) or had at least one dose of the HPV vaccine (aOR = 1.71; 95% CI: 1.24-2.37) were more likely to be aware. Men who intend to receive the HPV vaccine in the future were more likely to be aware (aOR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.04-2.53). Non-white women were less likely to be vaccinated (aOR = 0.56; 95% CI: 0.41-0.77). However, being aware was associated with HPV vaccine uptake in women (aOR = 1.65; 95% CI: 1.19-2.28) and borderline associated with the intent to obtain the HPV vaccine in men (aOR = 1.52; 95% CI: 0.99-2.35). Non-heterosexual men were more willing than heterosexuals to receive the vaccine. Following the UK gender-neutral HPV vaccination programme, there is an opportunity to increase awareness about the link between HPV and oral cancers aside from the cervical cancer link to influence HPV vaccine uptake.

Getting Recovery Right After Neck Dissection (GRRAND-F): mixed-methods feasibility study to design a pragmatic randomised controlled trial protocol

INTRODUCTION

We will evaluate the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial to estimate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a rehabilitation intervention on pain, function and health-related quality of life following neck dissection (ND) after head and neck cancer (HNC).

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is a pragmatic, multicentred, feasibility study. Participants are randomised to usual care (control) or usual care plus an individualised, rehabilitation programme (Getting Recovery Right After Neck Dissection, GRRAND intervention). Adults aged over 18 with HNC for whom ND is part of their care will be recruited from specialist clinics. Participants are randomised in 1:1 ratio using a web-based service. The target sample size is 60 participants. Usual care will be received by all participants during their postoperative inpatient stay consisting standard National Health Service care supplemented with a booklet advising on postoperative self-management strategies. The GRRAND intervention programme consists of usual care plus up to six individual physiotherapy sessions including neck and shoulder range of motion (ROM) and progressive resistance exercises, advice and education. Between sessions participants will be advised to complete a home exercise programme. The primary outcome is to determine recruitment and retention rates from study participants across sites. Outcomes will be measured at 6 and 12 months. Participants and physiotherapists will be invited to an optional qualitative interview at the completion of their involvement in the study. The target qualitative sample size is 15 participants and 12 physiotherapists. Interviews aim to further investigate the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention and to determine wider experiences of the study design and intervention from patient and physiotherapist perspectives.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval was given on 29 October 2019 (National Research Ethics Committee Number: 19/SC/0457). Results will be reported at conferences and in peer-reviewed publications.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN11979997.

STATUS

Trial recruitment is ongoing and is expected to be completed by 30 August 2021.

The impact of inequalities and health expenditure on mortality due to oral and oropharyngeal cancer in Brazil

This study aims to assess the magnitude and trend of mortality rates due to oral (OC) and oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) in the 133 Intermediate Geographic Regions (IGR) of Brazil between 1996 and 2018 and to analyze its association with sociodemographic variables and provision of health services. It also aims to compare the trend of mortality from neoplasms that have been reported as associated with HPV (OPC) with the trend of neoplasms that have been reported as not associated with HPV (OC). We obtained mortality data from the Mortality Information System in Brazil and analyzed the trends using the Prais-Winsten method. Then, we assessed the relationship between mortality trends and socioeconomic, health spending, and health services provision variables. The median of the annual percent change of the country’s mortality rates was 0.63% for OC and 0.83% for OPC. Trends in mortality in the IGRs correlated significantly with the Human Development Index and government expenditure on ambulatory health care and hospitalizations. Mortality from both types of cancer decreased in those IGR in which the government spent more on health and in the more socioeconomically developed ones. This study found no epidemiological indication that HPV plays the leading etiological factor in OPC in Brazil.

Trends in, and predictors of, swallowing and social eating outcomes in head and neck cancer survivors: A longitudinal analysis of head and neck 5000

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the recovery trajectory and predictors of outcome for swallowing difficulties following head and neck cancer treatment in a large prospective cohort.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from 5404 participants of the Head and Neck 5000 study were collected from 2011 to 2014. Patient-reported swallowing was measured using the EORTC HN35, recorded at baseline (pre-treatment) and 4 and 12 months post-baseline. Mixed-effects linear multivariable regression was used to investigate time trends, compare cancer sites, and identify associations between clinical, socio-demographic and lifestyle variables.

RESULTS

2458 participants with non-recurrent oral (29%) oropharyngeal (46%) and laryngeal (25%) cancer were included in the analysis. There was a clinically significant deterioration in scores between baseline and four months for swallowing (11.7 points; 95% CI 10.7-12.8) and trouble with social eating (17.9 points; 95% CI 16.7-19.2), but minimal difference between baseline and 12 months. Predictors of better swallowing and social eating were participants with larynx cancer, early-stage disease, treatment type, age, gender, co-morbidity, socio-economic status, smoking behaviour and cohabitation.

CONCLUSION

Swallowing problems persist up to a year after head and neck cancer treatment. These findings identify disease and demographic characteristics for particularly vulnerable groups, supporting the need for holistic interventions to help improve swallowing outcomes. People diagnosed with head and neck cancer at risk of severe eating and drinking problems following treatment can be identified earlier in the pathway, receive more accurate information about early and late post-treatment side-effects, which can inform shared decision-making discussions.

Survival advantage in patients with human papillomavirus-driven oropharyngeal cancer and variation by demographic characteristics and serologic response: Findings from Head and Neck 5000

BACKGROUND

Patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-driven oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) experience better survival than those with HPV-negative OPC. It is unclear whether this benefit varies by demographic characteristics and serologic response.

METHODS

Records from 1411 patients with OPC who had HPV serology data were analyzed. HPV status was based on HPV type 16 (HPV16) E6 serology. Participants were followed for a median of 5.9 years, and Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs). The association between HPV status and overall survival was analyzed by age group, sex, smoking status, tumor site, HPV antibody levels, and HPV antibody pattern. Models were adjusted for age, sex, smoking status, and comorbidity.

RESULTS

For the overall association between HPV status and survival, the fully adjusted HR was 0.43 (95% CI, 0.33-0.56). The HR was 0.19 (95% CI, 0.10-0.35) for participants aged ≤54 years, 0.38 (95% CI, 0.25-0.56) for those aged 55 to 64 years, and 0.73 (95% CI, 0.47-1.13) for those aged ≥65 years (P for interaction = .023). There was no clear evidence for an interaction by sex, smoking status, or tumor site. Survival did not differ according to E6 antibody levels in those who were seropositive. All seropositivity patterns were associated with increased survival compared with a pattern of seronegativity for all antibodies. Patients who are positive for E1, E2, E6, and E7 may experience better survival.

CONCLUSIONS

HPV status confers a survival advantage across all groups. This survival advantage is more marked for younger patients. The HPV antibody pattern, but not the antibody level, may also affect survival.

Dentoalveolar radiation dose following IMRT in oropharyngeal cancer-An observational study

OBJECTIVES

This observational study aims to determine individual dental doses in oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) patients managed by intensity modulated radiation treatment (IMRT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

OPC patients treated with IMRT had each tooth individually contoured on post-IMRT CT scans. The mean, maximum and minimum doses were calculated per tooth-based upon patient and tumor demographics (tumor size and nodal status).

RESULTS

A total of 160 patients were included in this study. Escalating tumor size and nodal status led to an observed increase in Dmean doses to the dentition on the contralateral tumor side. A significant region in both jaws received >30 Gy in this tumor group.

CONCLUSION

Tumor demographics were observed to influence RT doses to the dentition and need to be considered when providing a pre-RT dental assessment. The observed dose of >30 Gy in large spans of the dentition and jaws highlights future risk of dental deterioration and ORN with long term survival.

Global incidence trends in head and neck cancer for HPV-related and -unrelated subsites: A systematic review of population-based studies

In head and neck cancer (HNC), some subsites are associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, whereas others are unrelated. Although studies have demonstrated the heterogeneity of HPV prevalence worldwide, its impacts on incidence trends in HNC are unknown. This systematic review examined the incidence trends for HPV-related HNC subsites, exploring patterns by geographic region, age group, sex, and race/ethnicity. We searched for publications on PubMed, Embase, and Scopus. Eligible articles included population-based studies that analyzed incidence trends for subsites classified as a proxy for HPV infection in HNC (hereafter referred to as HPV-related subsites). We retrieved 3,948 non-duplicate records, of which 31 were eligible articles, representing 18 countries and spanning almost fifty years. Overall, the incidence of HPV-related HNC subsites rose, while most of the HPV-unrelated subsites declined or remained stable. For HPV-related HNC subsites, incidence trends increased regardless of age group, highlighting a distinct global pattern between sexes. Also, similar peaks in increased risk were observed in recent cohorts from both Australia and the United States. There is a dramatic shift in the global trends of HNCs, characterized by the emerging burden in HNC for HPV-related subsites.

To what extent has the last two decades seen significant progress in the management of older patients with head and neck cancer?

INTRODUCTION

Life expectancy is rising and consequently also the number of older patients with head and neck cancer. Different treatment regimens are often applied for older patients. The aim of this study is to investigate how treatment patterns and survival rates have changed over the past 20 years in older patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

MATERIALS

Patient and tumour characteristics, treatment and 5-year survival data from the Netherlands Cancer Registry of patients aged ≥60 years diagnosed with HNSCC in 1990-1995 and 2010-2015 were compared using chi-square test and relative survival analysis.

RESULTS

Data of 14,114 patients were analyzed. Oral cavity cancer treatment did not change over time, while survival improved from 54% to 58% (p = 0.03). Oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer treatment shifted towards non-surgical, with survival improving from 31% to 51% (p < 0.01) and 26% to 34% (p < 0.01), respectively. Laryngeal cancer treatment changed towards surgery in stage I and non-surgical treatment in stage III and IV disease. Survival in laryngeal cancer stage I remained stable and favorable at a relative survival rate of around 90%. Survival non-significantly changed from 54% to 49% for stage III disease and from 37% to 33% for disease.

CONCLUSION

Relative survival increased for all head and neck cancer sites in older patients, except for laryngeal cancer. For oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal and advanced laryngeal cancer, a shift towards non-surgical treatment modalities was observed.

Upfront surgery or definitive radiotherapy for p16+ oropharyngeal cancer. A GETTEC multicentric study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the initial therapeutic strategy on oncologic outcomes in patients with HPV-positive OPSCC.

METHODS

All p16-positive OPSCCs treated from 2009 to 2014 in 7 centers were retrospectively included and classified according to the therapeutic strategy: surgical strategy (surgery ± adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy) vs. non-surgical strategy (definitive radiotherapy ± chemotherapy). Univariate, multivariate propensity score matching analyses were performed to compare overall (OS), disease-specific (DSS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS).

RESULTS

382 patients were included (surgical group: 144; non-surgical group: 238). Five-year OS, DSS and RFS were 89.2, 96.8 and 83.9% in the surgical group and 84.2, 87.1 and 70.4% in the non-surgical group, respectively. These differences were statistically significant for DSS and RFS after multivariate analysis, but only for RFS after propensity score matching analysis.

CONCLUSION

In p16+ OPSCC patients, upfront surgery results in higher RFS than definitive radiotherapy ± chemotherapy but does not impact OS.

The palliative care needs and experiences of people with advanced head and neck cancer: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

The palliative care needs of people with advanced head and neck cancer pose unique complexities due to the impact the illness has on eating, speaking, appearance and breathing. Examining these needs would help provide guidance about developing relevant models of care and identify gaps in research knowledge.

AIM

To identify and map out the palliative care needs and experiences for people with advanced head and neck cancer.

DESIGN

A scoping literature review following the methods described by the Joanna Briggs Institute.

DATA SOURCES

An electronic search of the literature was undertaken in MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE and CINAHL covering the years January 1996 to January 2019.

RESULTS

People with advanced head and neck cancer often had palliative care needs but there was variability in the timing and access to relevant services. A high prevalence of interventions, for example hospital admissions were needed even during the last month of life. This was not necessarily negated with early engagement of palliative care. Dissonance between patients and family carers about information needs and decision-making was an additional complexity. Studies tended to be descriptive in nature, and often involved a single centre.

CONCLUSION

This scoping review demonstrates the complexity of care for people with advanced head and neck cancer and the issues related to the current healthcare systems. Focus on appropriate referral criteria, increased integration and coordination of care and robust evaluation of specific care components seems key. Linkage between research and service design delivery across teams, disciplines and care settings seems pertinent.

Characterization of human papillomavirus (HPV) 16 E6 seropositive individuals without HPV-associated malignancies after 10 years of follow-up in the UK Biobank

BACKGROUND

Antibodies against the HPV16 oncoprotein E6 are promising biomarkers for HPV16-driven oropharyngeal cancer (HPV16-OPC) due to their high sensitivity and specificity, and prospective manifestation. In previous studies, 0•7% of controls without HPV-associated malignancies were HPV16 E6 seropositive of which only a minority is expected to develop HPV16-driven cancer. We aimed to characterise HPV16 E6 antibodies in individuals without HPV-associated malignancies.

METHODS

We analysed serum antibodies against HPV16 E6, E7, L1 and HPV18 L1 in a random sample (n = 9,695) of the prospective UK Biobank cohort (UKB). Excluding individuals with potentially HPV-associated malignancies (n = 192), we assessed risk factors for seropositivity by logistic regression.

FINDINGS

In individuals without potentially HPV-associated malignancies (n = 9,503), the HPV16 E6 seroprevalence was 0•8%. Seropositivity against HPV16 E6 and all other HPV antigens was strongly associated with sexual behaviour. The seroprevalence of HPV16 E6, L1 and HPV18 L1 increased with the number of lifetime sex partners (ptrend<0•005), and all HPV antibodies were associated with same-sex intercourse (ORE6 3•1, 95%CI 1•4-6•9; reference category: no same-sex intercourse). HPV16 E6 and L1 seropositivity were associated with young age (≤17 years) at sexual debut (ORE6 2•0, 95%CI 1•1-3•7) compared with individuals reporting sexual debut at age ≥20 years.

INTERPRETATION

This is the first study characterising HPV16 E6 antibodies in the general UK population. Their strong association with sexual behaviour, and overlapping risk factor profiles with other HPV antibodies support their relevance for HPV16-OPC disease prediction. However, additional risk stratification will be required to identify individuals at highest risk to develop HPV16-OPC.

Convolutional Neural Network Classifies Pathological Voice Change in Laryngeal Cancer with High Accuracy

Voice changes may be the earliest signs in laryngeal cancer. We investigated whether automated voice signal analysis can be used to distinguish patients with laryngeal cancer from healthy subjects. We extracted features using the software package for speech analysis in phonetics (PRAAT) and calculated the Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCCs) from voice samples of a vowel sound of /a:/. The proposed method was tested with six algorithms: support vector machine (SVM), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), light gradient boosted machine (LGBM), artificial neural network (ANN), one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN) and two-dimensional convolutional neural network (2D-CNN). Their performances were evaluated in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. The result was compared with human performance. A total of four volunteers, two of whom were trained laryngologists, rated the same files. The 1D-CNN showed the highest accuracy of 85% and sensitivity and sensitivity and specificity levels of 78% and 93%. The two laryngologists achieved accuracy of 69.9% but sensitivity levels of 44%. Automated analysis of voice signals could differentiate subjects with laryngeal cancer from those of healthy subjects with higher diagnostic properties than those performed by the four volunteers.

A new face of the HPV epidemic: Oropharyngeal cancer in the elderly

OBJECTIVES

As the human papillomavirus (HPV) epidemic continues to grow, the number of elderly patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is rapidly increasing. Despite this observation, this cohort remains understudied. We aimed to understand HPV prevalence and characteristics within this cohort as well as its impact on disease control in elderly patients.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We identified patients aged ≥70 with newly diagnosed, non-metastatic, OPSCC treated with curative intent at our institution from 2007 to 2018. Logistic regression and survival analyses were used for outcome-specific endpoints.

RESULTS

In total, 88 patients were identified with a median age of 73 (interquartile range [IQR]: 71-78) and a median Charlson Comorbidity Index of 6 (IQR: 5-7). Eighty-two percent were ECOG 0 or 1 performance. Of note, 70% of the cohort had HPV+ tumors. Fifty-one percent of patients were AJCC 8th edition stage I/II and 49% were stage III/IV. Median follow-up time was 2.5 years (IQR: 0.9-4.7). Eight percent had surgery alone, 27% underwent adjuvant RT, and 64% received definitive RT. Sixty-four percent received concurrent chemotherapy. By both univariate and multivariable analyses, HPV+ status was significantly associated with improved locoregional control (LRC), overall survival (OS), and disease specific survival (DSS).

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort of elderly patients with OPSCC, the majority was HPV+, which was associated with improved clinical outcomes. There are many challenges when managing elderly patients with OPSCC, but as the population ages and the HPV epidemic evolves, these patients should be considered for elderly specific clinical trials.

Pre-radiotherapy dental status of oropharyngeal cancer patients based on HPV status in a novel radiation era

Objectives Among common head and neck cancers (HNCs), oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) patients have been identified as having a better dentition than many other tumour subsites. OPC consists of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive and negative groups with different prognosis. The purpose of this study is to explore the presenting dental status of OPC patients based on HPV status at the pre-radiotherapy phase.Materials and methods The study reviewed the dental panoramic radiographs of OPC patients seen at a dedicated pre-radiotherapy dental assessment clinic from 2011-2017. Only patients planned for intensity-modulated radiotherapy treatment were included within this study. Relevant dental and oncological data were collected.Results A total of 316 patients with known HPV status (215 positive; 101 negative) were included for analysis. HPV-positive patients had significantly more teeth on attendance than HPV-negative patients (22.3 vs 19.0, p = 0.0000) and horizontal bone loss was less severe compared to HPV-negative patients (p = 0.0000). HPV-positive males and patients in the 55-64 decade presented with the best and most complex dentition.Conclusion The rise of OPC with the prospect of long survival, particularly in HPV-positive patients, requires a dentition with adequate function and subsequent maintenance. The current study demonstrated that these patients have a complex dentition presenting new challenges to the dentist. This may explain in part the elevated osteoradionecrosis rate seen in this tumour group.

Evolving Role of Immunotherapy in Recurrent Metastatic Head and Neck Cancer

Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment in the past 2 decades, mostly with immune checkpoint blockade approaches. In squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN), the initial efficacy of immunotherapy was observed in patients with recurrent or metastatic (R/M) disease who received other prior systemic treatment. As monotherapy, anti-PD-1 therapies induce responses in 13% to 18% of patients. More recently, immunotherapy in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy demonstrated greater safety and efficacy as first-line systemic treatment compared with chemotherapy alone. In R/M SCCHN, the most important benefit of immunotherapy is the significantly improved overall survival, especially in patients with PD-L1-positive tumors. As of 2019, immunotherapy can be used as first-line or subsequent treatment of R/M SCCHN. Many ongoing trials are evaluating immunotherapy combinations or novel immunotherapy strategies, aiming to improve response rate and overall survival. As new targets are identified and new approaches are leveraged, the role of immunotherapy in R/M SCCHN continues to evolve.

Epidemiologic aspects of oral cancer

Oral cancer is depicted by diverse geographic disparity in its incidence and prevalence, with a wide range of variation in its distribution across various parts of the world. The present review aims at focusing on the global epidemiological data of oral cancer and catalogues the available data from the past to till date on burden of oral cancer across different continents in the world. The review also suggests a few ideas on modifying the recording of the epidemiological data of the disease.

The emerging risk of oropharyngeal and oral cavity cancer in HPV-related subsites in young people in Brazil

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for the rise in the incidence of cancer in the oropharynx, tonsils, and base of the tongue (i.e., HPV-related subsites). HPV triggered the changes in the epidemiology of oropharyngeal and oral cavity cancer (OPC/OCC) in Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania. Hence, the incidence of cancer in HPV-related subsites is augmenting, while that in other HPV-unrelated subsites is decreasing. In South America, although the incidence of HPV-positive tumors has gradually increased, there is an atypically low prevalence of HPV in people with OPC/OCC. To clarify whether this dramatic shift in incidence trends also occurred in this population, we estimated the burden of HPV on the incidence trends of OPCs/OCCs in São Paulo city in Brazil. In this population-based study, we categorized OPCs/OCCs by HPV-related and HPV-unrelated subsites. We used Poisson regression to assess the age-standardized incidence rates (ASRs) stratified by sex and age groups, as well as to examine the age-period-cohort effects. There were 15,391 cases of OPCs/OCCs diagnosed in HPV-related (n = 5,898; 38.3%) and HPV-unrelated (n = 9,493; 61.7%) subsites. Overall, the ASRs decreased for most subsites, for both sexes and for all age groups, except for HPV-related OPC/OCC in young males and females, which increased by 3.8% and 8.6% per year, respectively. In the birth-cohort-effect analysis, we identified an increasing risk for HPV-related OPC/OCC in both sexes in recent birth cohorts; however, this risk was sharply decreased in HPV-unrelated subsites. Our data demonstrate an emerging risk for HPV-related OPC/OCC in young people, which supports prophylactic HPV vaccination in this group.

Oral cavity cancer incidence rates in Osaka, Japan between 2000 and 2014

BACKGROUND

We investigated trends in oral cavity cancer incidence from 2000 to 2014 in Osaka, Japan.

METHODS

Using Osaka Cancer Registry (OCR) data, oral cavity cancer incidence number and age-standardized incidence rates were calculated according to three 5-year-time-periods: 2000-2004, 2005-2009 and 2010-2014. We calculated the distribution of clinical stage for each 5-year period and the proportion of oral cavity cancer among all cancers.

RESULTS

A total of 6,086 oral cavity cancers were registered in OCR in 2000-2014. Across the period, between 55.6% and 65.0% were 65 years+ and approximately 60% were men. Tongue cancer accounted for 30.4% to 43.8% of the registrations, while gum accounted for 30.7% to 34.7%. 36.3% to 37.3% were regional, while 1.8% to 2.8% were distant. The age-standardized incidence rate of oral cavity cancer increased from 2.1/100,000 in 2000 to 3.8/100,000 in 2014, although the proportion of oral cavity cancer among all cancers only increased slightly from 0.71% in 2000 to 0.92% in 2014. Proportion of localized stage cancer was 60.8%-67.5% for tongue and 31.0%-49.5% for gum or floor of mouth. Proportion of distant stage cancer was 0.3%-1.0% for tongue and 2.5%-4.2% for gum or floor of mouth.

CONCLUSIONS

Age-standardized incidence rate of oral cavity cancer increased, but was not higher than other countries. The proportion of localized stage tongue cancer was higher, while that of distant stage cancer was lower than other sites. Tongue cancer might be easier to detect in its earlier stages than other sites.

The changing epidemiology of oral cancer: definitions, trends, and risk factors

Objective

This review has three objectives, namely: (i) to discuss how oral cancer is and ought to be defined and recorded; (ii) to present up-to-date data on the incidence burden of the disease in the four countries of the UK, and review recent analyses of trends in the disease; and (iii) to summarise recent evidence on risk factors of the disease.

Methods

Cancer definitions were clarified by the International Classification of Diseases accounting for anatomical and aetiological differences; descriptive epidemiology included international / UK literature review and information requests for incidence data from the UK cancer registries (2000-2016); analytical epidemiology focused on reviewing the findings of the International Head and Neck Cancer Epidemiology (INHANCE) consortium, which has pooled data from multiple case-control studies providing the best estimates of risk factors.

Results

Emerging evidence of the role played by risk factors in different anatomical sites means that oral cavity cancer and oropharynx cancer should be considered distinct disease entities – and a standardised attribution of anatomical subsites will be helpful in ensuring consistency in how data are presented. In 2016, over 3,700 people were diagnosed with oral cavity cancer and over 3,500 people were diagnosed with oropharyngeal cancer in the UK. Incidence of oropharyngeal cancer is rapidly rising across the UK. Rates of oral cavity cancer are higher in Northern Ireland and higher still (and relatively stable) in Scotland, but rising in England and Wales. INHANCE data show that while the consumption of alcohol and tobacco are the prime risk factors for oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers, they provide greater certainty in the preventive benefits of reducing these risk factors. The role played by other factors such as low socioeconomic status, genetics, oral health, and human papillomavirus (only for oropharyngeal cancer) have become clearer.

Conclusions

This epidemiology provides a strong foundation for designing and managing both population and individual oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer control strategies.

Is detecting oral cancer in general dental practices a realistic expectation? A population-based study using population linked data in Scotland

Aims

To examine, for the first time on a population-basis via data linkage, whether early detection by general dental practices (GDP) is a realistic expectation by i) estimating the number of OC cases/year a dentist in Scotland may encounter over time, accounting for the deprivation level of practice location and dental registration/attendance rates, and ii) assessing whether patients attended GDPs two years pre-diagnosis.

Materials and methods

Scottish Cancer Registry data on all OC cases (2010-2012), published NHS Scotland dental workforce and registration/participation statistics, and individual patient data linked with NHS dental service activity were analysed.

Results

Dentists were estimated to potentially encounter one case of OC every 10 years, OCC every 16.7 years, and OPC every 25 years. However, 53.7% of OC patients had made no dental contact two years pre-diagnosis.

Conclusion

Strategies for early detection must consider the rarity of OC incidence and poor dental attendance patterns. These results highlight the importance of improving access and uptake of dental services among those at highest risk to increase the opportunities for early detection.

Using experience-based co-design to improve the pre-treatment care pathway for people diagnosed with head and neck cancer

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have highlighted that people diagnosed with head and neck cancer (HNC) have complex information needs. They are subject to multiple clinical appointments with numerous healthcare professionals in preparation for their treatment. Speech and language therapists (SLTs) are core members of the HNC multidisciplinary team, providing assessment, prehabilitation and counselling regarding potential treatment effects on the critical functions, including swallowing and communication. We believed the purpose of the pre-treatment speech-language therapy (SLT) consultation within this pathway is not well understood by patients. Whilst the benefits of prophylactic swallowing exercise prescriptions continue to be explored, adherence is a frequently cited challenge in clinical trials. We sought to enhance pre-treatment dysphagia services for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) undergoing chemoradiation.

METHODS

A participatory action research approach called experience-based co-design (EBCD) was undertaken at a tertiary cancer hospital in the UK. People who had previous radical radiation treatment for head and neck cancer and staff members within the head and neck unit were recruited to take part in in-depth, one-to-one interviews about their experiences of the pre-treatment SLT head and neck radiation clinic. Patient interviews were video-recorded, analysed and edited down to a 30 min 'trigger' film. At a subsequent patient feedback event, the film was shown and an 'emotional mapping' exercise was undertaken. Through facilitated discussion, patient priorities for change were agreed and recorded. At a staff feedback event, key themes from the staff interviews were discussed and priority areas for change identified. The project culminated in a joint patient and staff event where the film was viewed, experiences shared and joint priorities for change agreed. Task and finish groups were developed to implement these changes.

RESULTS

Seven patients and seven staff members participated. All seven patients had undergone radical (chemo-) radiation for HNC. At least 2 months had elapsed since their final treatment date and all participants were within 9 months of their definitive treatment. Staff members comprised a radiation oncologist, two clinical nurse specialists, two head and neck dietitians and two speech-language therapists. Patients reported that overall, their experience of the pre-treatment clinic is positive. Patients value experienced staff, consistency of staff and the messages they provide and a team approach. Patients highlighted the need for different information methods including online/digital information resources and further information regarding the longer-term effects of treatment. Patients valued the purposes of prophylactic exercises and again advocated for supporting resources to be available in a range of online/digital media. Staff members raised the need for flexibility in appointment times and clearer messaging as to the rationale for a pre-treatment SLT appointment, including a rebranding of the SLT service. Seven key areas for improvement were identified jointly by patients and staff members including revision of patient and carer information, development of a patient experience video, information on timelines for recovery, a buddy system for patients before, during and after treatment, flexibility of appointment scheduling, seamless transfer of care between settings and SLT department rebranding. Joint patient and staff task and finish groups were initiated to work on these seven priority areas.

CONCLUSIONS

We have worked in partnership with patients to co-design pre-treatment dysphagia services which are accessible and meet the individuals' needs. Task and finish groups are ongoing with staff and patients are working together to address priority areas for change. This work provides a good example for other centres who may wish to engage in similar activities.

Alcohol Screening and Brief Advice in NHS General Dental Practices: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial

AIM

To assess the feasibility and acceptability of screening for alcohol misuse and delivering brief advice to eligible patients attending NHS dental practices in London.

METHODS

A two-arm cluster randomized controlled feasibility trial was conducted. Twelve dental practices were recruited and randomized to intervention and control arms. Participants attending for a dental check were recruited into the study and were eligible if they consumed alcohol above recommended levels assessed by the AUDIT-C screening tool. All eligible participants were asked to complete a baseline socio-demographic questionnaire. Six months after the completion of baseline measures, participants were contacted via telephone by a researcher masked to their allocation status. The full AUDIT tool was then administered. Alcohol consumption in the last 90 days was also assessed using the Form 90. A process evaluation assessed the acceptability of the intervention.

RESULTS

Over a 7-month period, 229 participants were recruited (95.4% recruitment rate) and at the 6 months follow-up, 176 participants were assessed (76.9% retention rate). At the follow-up, participants in the intervention arm were significantly more likely to report a longer abstinence period (3.2 vs. 2.3 weeks respectively, P = 0.04) and non-significant differences in AUDIT (44.9% vs. 59.8% AUDIT positive respectively, P = 0.053) and AUDIT C difference between baseline and follow-up (-0.67 units vs. -0.29 units respectively, P = 0.058). Results from the process evaluation indicated that the intervention and study procedures were acceptable to dentists and patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of dentists screening for alcohol misuse and providing brief advice.

A patient tumour-on-a-chip system for personalised investigation of radiotherapy based treatment regimens

Development of personalised cancer models to predict response to radiation would benefit patient care; particularly in malignancies where treatment resistance is prevalent. Herein, a robust, easy to use, tumour-on-a-chip platform which maintains precision cut head and neck cancer for the purpose of ex vivo irradiation is described. The device utilises sintered discs to separate the biopsy and medium, mimicking in vivo microvascular flow and diffusion, maintaining tissue viability for 68 h. Integrity of tissues is demonstrated by the low levels of lactate dehydrogenase release and retained histology, accompanied by assessment of cell viability by trypan blue exclusion and flow cytometry; fluid dynamic modelling validates culture conditions. An irradiation jig is described for reproducible delivery of clinically-relevant doses (5 × 2 Gy) to newly-presenting primary tumours (n = 12); the addition of concurrent cisplatin is also investigated (n = 8) with response analysed by immunohistochemistry. Fractionated irradiation reduced proliferation (BrdU, p = 0.0064), increased DNA damage (ƴH2AX, p = 0.0043) and caspase-dependent apoptosis (caspase-cleaved cytokeratin-18) compared to control; caspase-dependent apoptosis was further increased by concurrent cisplatin compared to control (p = 0.0063). This is a proof of principle study showing the response of cancer tissue to irradiation ex vivo in a bespoke system. The novel platform described has the potential to personalise treatment for patients in a cost-effective manner with applicability to any solid tumour.

Another oral cancer clinical guideline - but does it propose changes to dental practice?

Scope and purpose This guideline concerns patients with no lesions, innocuous or nonsuspicious lesions, lesions suspected to be potentially malignant as well as malignant lesions of the oral cavity. The audience for this guideline is health care workers who examine the mouth as well as community dental health co-ordinators and policy makers. Methodology The Appraisal of Guidelines Research & Evaluation reporting checklist II and the GIN-McMaster Guideline Development Checklist were followed and the guideline is partly informed by systematic reviews and diagnostic test accuracy meta-analyses. Studies assessing patients' values and preferences were also considered. The process of moving from the evidence to decisions and the formulation was guided by GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation).Review and Updating Updates for this guideline will be conducted every five years or when new emerging evidence indicates a potential change in the recommendation statements from the expert panel. Any updated versions of this guideline will be available at the ADA Center for Evidence-Based Dentistry's website: www.ebd.ada Recommendations The expert panel developed six conditional recommendations, all based on evidence rated as low to very low quality using GRADE. 1. For patients with a clinically evident oral mucosal lesion with an unknown clinical diagnosis considered to be seemingly innocuous or nonsuspicious of malignancy, or other symptoms, clinicians should follow up periodically to determine the need for further evaluation. If the lesion has not resolved and the clinical diagnosis of a potentially malignant disorder cannot be ruled out, then clinicians should perform a biopsy of the lesion or refer the patient to a specialist.2. For patients with a clinically evident oral mucosal lesion considered to be suspicious of a potentially malignant or malignant disorder, or other symptoms, clinicians should perform a biopsy of the lesion or provide immediate referral to a specialist.3. Cytologic adjuncts for the evaluation of potentially malignant disorders among adult patients with clinically evident, seemingly innocuous or suspicious lesions are not recommended. Should a patient decline the clinician's recommendation for performing a biopsy of the lesion or referral to a specialist, the clinician can use a cytologic adjunct to provide additional lesion assessment. A positive or atypical cytologic test result reinforces the need for a biopsy or referral.A negative cytologic test result indicates the need for periodic follow-up of the patient. If the clinician detects persistence or progression of the lesion, immediately performing a biopsy of the lesion or referral to a specialist is indicated.4. The panel does not recommend autofluorescence, tissue reflectance or vital staining adjuncts for the evaluation of potentially malignant disorders among adult patients with clinically evident, seemingly innocuous or suspicious lesions.5. The panel suggests that for patients with no clinically evident lesions or symptoms, no further action is necessary at that time.6. The panel does not recommend commercially available salivary adjuncts for the evaluation of potentially malignant disorders among adult patients with or without clinically evident, seemingly innocuous or suspicious lesions and their use should be considered only in the context of research.Research recommendations There is a need for better estimation of the prevalence of potentially malignant disorders (PMDs) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in populations with different baseline risks. More information on patients' values and preferences is required as well as studies on the diagnostic test accuracy of cytologic and salivary adjuncts.