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Updated: Mar 11, 2026
Intramucosal Inoculation of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells in Mice for Tumor Immune Profiling and Treatment Response Assessment
Published on: April 22, 2019
PD1/PD-L1 inhibition as a potential radiosensitizer in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a case report
Misako Nagasaka1, Mark Zaki2, Harold Kim2
1Department of Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI USA.
Background:
Immunotherapy targeting the checkpoint PD1 (programmed cell death protein 1) or PDL1 (programmed death ligand 1) has led to advances in the treatment of melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The use of such therapies has also been introduced into the treatment of other malignancies, including head and neck cancer. The combined effects of checkpoint inhibitors and anti-PD1(L1) antibodies and radiation therapy have not yet been sufficiently investigated.
Case Presentation:
We report a case of locally relapsed non-resectable oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma, with excellent local control after pembrolizumab (MK3475) followed by radiotherapy.
Conclusion:
T cell activation induced by checkpoint inhibition may dramatically improve tumor response to radiation. More data are needed to identify the toxicity and efficacy of sequential or concurrent checkpoint inhibitors and radiotherapy.
Insights
Pembrolizumab, a programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitor, achieved excellent local control for relapsed oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma. This highlights the potential of combining immunotherapy with radiation therapy for head and neck cancers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) checkpoint inhibitors have advanced melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment.
- These immunotherapies are increasingly used for other cancers, including head and neck cancer.
- The synergistic effects of combining checkpoint inhibitors with radiotherapy remain under-investigated.
Observation:
- A case of locally relapsed, non-resectable oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma was treated.
- The treatment regimen involved pembrolizumab (an anti-PD-1 antibody) followed by radiotherapy.
Findings:
- The combined sequential therapy resulted in excellent local tumor control.
- T cell activation, induced by checkpoint inhibition, may enhance tumor response to radiation.
Implications:
- This case suggests a promising role for sequential immunotherapy and radiotherapy in managing advanced oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma.
- Further research is crucial to determine the optimal use, toxicity, and efficacy of combined checkpoint inhibitors and radiotherapy in various head and neck cancers.
