The risk of second primary tumors in head and neck cancer: A systematic review

Andrés Coca-Pelaz1,2, Juan P Rodrigo1,2, Carlos Suárez2

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias-University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain.

Head & Neck
|November 22, 2019
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Second primary tumors (SPTs) are common in head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors, impacting life expectancy. Early diagnosis strategies are crucial for improving patient prognosis.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Cancer Research
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Second primary tumors (SPTs) significantly reduce survival rates in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients.
  • Managing SPTs is critical during post-treatment follow-up for HNC survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the incidence of synchronous and metachronous SPTs in HNC patients.
  • To analyze the frequency and common sites of SPTs in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic literature review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted.
  • Data from 61 articles, encompassing 456,130 HNC patients, were analyzed (1979-2019).

Main Results:

  • The overall mean incidence of SPTs was 13.2%, with synchronous SPTs at 5.3% and metachronous SPTs at 9.4%.
  • The most common sites for SPTs were the head and neck region, followed by the lungs and esophagus.
  • A minimum follow-up of 22 months was considered in the reviewed studies.

Conclusions:

  • The incidence of SPTs in HNC patients is notably high, despite variations across studies.
  • Developing effective strategies for the early detection of SPTs is essential due to their significant impact on prognosis.

Related Concept Videos