Related Experiment Video For cancer surveillance
Updated: Aug 2, 2025
RNAscope for In situ Detection of Transcriptionally Active Human Papillomavirus in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: March 11, 2014
Novel HPV Associated Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Surveillance DNA Assay Cost Analysis
Michael G Lin1, Alexander Zhu2, Paul W Read2
1University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Objectives:
We aim to propose a modified surveillance strategy using a novel blood assay that detects plasma circulating tumor-specific HPV DNA with reported 100% NPV and 94% PPV as the main method of detection to understand the cost implications of potentially avoiding routine imaging and surveillance visits at our institution.
Methods:
We performed a retrospective chart review focusing on recurrences in p16+ patients with OPSCC and defined two surveillance strategies: "Strategy A", follow-up visits with flexible laryngoscopy (FL) plus regular imaging studies; "Strategy B", follow-up visits with FL plus regular NavDx assays and imaging used at the discretion of the physician(s) in cases of high clinical suspicion.
Results:
Of the p16+ OPSCC patients (n = 214), 23 had confirmed recurrence (11%). Standard work-flow model determined 72 imaging studies and 2198 physical examinations with FL were needed to detect one recurrence. Potential individual patient cost reduction during surveillance was 42%.
Conclusion:
Implementing NavDx for HPV + OPSCC surveillance would benefit patients by reducing costs and unnecessary diagnostic testing.
Level Of Evidence:
Step/Level 3 Laryngoscope, 133:3006-3012, 2023.
