NCCN Guidelines® Insights: Head and Neck Cancers, Version 1.2022.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Radiation Oncology

Background:

• The NCCN Guidelines for Head and Neck Cancers provide comprehensive management strategies for malignancies affecting the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and paranasal sinuses.
• The guidelines also encompass occult primary cancer, salivary gland cancer, and mucosal melanoma (MM).

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the NCCN Head and Neck Cancers Panel's latest recommendations for managing human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharynx cancer.
• To highlight ongoing research and recent updates in the field of head and neck oncology.

Main Methods:

• The NCCN Head and Neck Cancers Panel convenes annually to review institutional feedback, new scientific publications, and abstracts.
• Recommendations are updated based on the latest evidence and expert consensus.

Main Results:

• The NCCN Guidelines Insights focus on recent updates concerning HPV-positive oropharynx cancer.
• Treatment decisions are guided by disease site, stage, and pathological findings, including surgical procedures, radiation parameters, and systemic therapy indications.

Conclusions:

• The NCCN Guidelines provide a framework for evidence-based treatment of head and neck cancers.
• Continuous review and updates ensure that management strategies reflect the most current scientific advancements and clinical data.