Onkológia 2/2015

Chemotherapy in combination with radiotherapy in locally advanced head and neck carcinoma

Although firmly established, the role of chemotherapy in locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma presents several unresolved questions. Historically, we can follow the longest trek in induction chemotherapy which still remains experimental outside organ preservation setting. Concomitant platinum-based chemotherapy is supported by strong evidence and is considered a standard treatment of inoperable tumours, in larynx preservation and postoperatively in presence of high risk factors. No clear conclusion can be drawn regarding optimal type of concomitant chemotherapy, number of cycles and the total dose. Cetuximab administered with radiotherapy has not been compared directly with concomitant chemotherapy but offers different approach in systemic treatment. Clinical research is focused to optimal combination and intensity of treatment modalities in favourable HPV associated head and neck tumours and in outcomes improvement in high risk cancers.

Keywords: head and neck cancer, chemoradiotherapy, induction chemotherapy.