CD98 expression can be a predictive factor of resistance to radiotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

CD98 is a marker of cancer stem cells, and it regulates radiosensitivity in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The current study aimed to investigate whether CD98 can be used as a prognostic factor and marker of radioresistance. CD98 immunostaining was performed using biopsy specimens collected from patients diagnosed with HNSCC. The average period of postoperative monitoring was 31.6 months. The treatment options were radiation therapy with either cisplatin or cetuximab, and surgery. The participants were divided into groups of low and high fluorescence intensity. CD98 was an independent prognostic factor of radioresistance. In total, 103 patients were treated with chemoradiotherapy or bioradiotherapy. The overall survival rates of patients receiving chemoradiotherapy or bioradiotherapy were 69.2% in the low group and 36.2% in the high group. The progression-free survival rates were 60.0% and 24.6%, respectively. CD98 expression was considered an independent prognostic factor of overall survival and progression-free survival. In total, 99 patients underwent surgical treatment. The surgery group did not differ according to CD98 expression. Via CD98 immunostaining, sensitivity to radiotherapy can be determined in advance. In HNSCC, knowledge about sensitivity to radiotherapy can significantly improve prognosis.