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Systemic chemotherapy for squamous cell head and neck cancer
1Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Desk R-35, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. adelstd@ccf.org
Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
|December 4, 2003
Summary
Systemic chemotherapy shows significant effectiveness in treating squamous cell head and neck cancer, even in advanced stages. Clinical trials have established its role in palliative and definitive treatment, improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Squamous cell head and neck cancer is uncommon in North America.
- It is of significant interest due to its sensitivity to chemotherapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review data on systemic chemotherapy for head and neck squamous cell cancer.
- To evaluate its role in palliative and definitive treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical trials on systemic chemotherapy.
- Analysis of chemotherapy's use in various treatment settings (induction, adjuvant, concurrent).
Main Results:
- Systemic chemotherapy achieves meaningful tumor shrinkage, even in relapsed/metastatic disease.
- Clinical trials have led to changes in the standard of care.
Conclusions:
- Systemic chemotherapy is a valuable tool in managing head and neck squamous cell cancer.
- Evidence supports its use in both palliative and definitive treatment strategies.