HPV: a factor in organ preservation for locally advanced larynx and hypopharynx cancer?

To assess the interaction of HPV/p16 status and therapy rendered in patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx and hypopharynx.

Forty-seven consecutive patients receiving definitive treatment between 2009 and 2011 for locally advanced larynx or hypopharynx cancer with high-risk HPV and/or p16 testing performed were identified and retrospectively investigated. Overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) were assessed.

Of 47 evaluable patients, there were 38 (81%) with laryngeal and 9 (19%) with hypopharyngeal tumors, 13 (28%) of which were found to be either HPV or p16 positive. At a median follow-up of 24 months, comparing HPV/p16+ versus HPV/p16- patients, there was no difference in OS, DFS, or LRFS. There was an improvement in 2-year DFS (60% vs 100%, P=.03) and LRFS (80% vs 100%, P=.08), in HPV/p16+ patients treated with chemo/RT versus surgery. There was an improvement in 2-year DFS (100% vs 68%, P=.04) and LRFS (100% vs 72%, P=.05) in HPV/p16+ versus HPV/p16- patients who received chemo/RT.

Patients with HPV/p16+ tumors fared more favorably with chemo/RT than up-front surgery, with improvements in DFS and LRFS. In patients treated with the intent of organ preservation therapy, HPV/p16+ patients had no observed treatment failures. HPV/p16 status should be taken into account when considering organ preservation for locally advanced larynx and hypopharynx cancers.