Rates and Outcomes of Head and Neck Cancer Among Patients With Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Primary immunodeficiency disorders (PID) are linked to increased hematological cancer risk.
• The association between PID and head and neck cancer (HNC) risk is not well-established.
• Understanding HNC incidence in PID patients is crucial for early detection and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare HNC incidence in patients with PID versus the general population.
• To analyze outcomes for HNC patients with and without PID.
• To identify specific risks associated with HNC in the context of PID.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study utilizing the TriNetX database and SEER 2017-2021 data.
• Comparative analysis of HNC incidence between PID patients and the general population.
• 1:1 propensity score-matched cohorts for outcomes analysis in HNC patients with and without PID.

Main Results:

• Patients with PID showed a significantly increased risk of HNC (SIR 6.55 for oral cavity and pharynx cancer).
• HNC patients with PID had a higher risk of mortality (HR 1.39) and malnutrition (OR 1.34).
• PID is associated with poorer outcomes in head and neck cancer patients.

Conclusions:

• Patients with PID have a substantially higher incidence of head and neck cancer compared to the general population.
• Head and neck cancer patients with PID face elevated risks of mortality and post-operative complications.
• This study highlights the importance of vigilant screening and management for HNC in PID patients.