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Title: Immunotherapy as a Key Treatment Modality in Head and Neck Cancer: A Case Series


Authors: Andrew Dias1, Deirdre Callanan1, Patrick Sheahan1, Romina Golchin1, Ryan O'Sullivan1
Publication: Journal of The Irish Head and Neck Society - 2025
Issue: 3 Volume: 3
Published: February, 2025 View PDF

Background:
The role of immunotherapy in head and neck oncology is rapidly evolving. This case series aims to explore the indications, outcomes, and challenges associated with immunotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer.

Methods:
We reviewed 19 patients with head and neck cancer who received immunotherapy. Cases were identified from a local cancer database, and additional chart review documented patient demographics and clinical characteristics.

Results:
The cohort had a mean age of 61 years (range: 34–83). Most patients had squamous cell carcinoma (n=15, 83.3%), while melanoma was observed in three cases (16.6%). Tumour locations included the oral cavity (n=7, 41.2%), skin (n=6, 35.3%), larynx (n=2, 11.8%), oropharynx (n=1, 5.9%), and unknown (n=1, 5.9%).
Most patients had advanced disease: T4b (n=2, 15.4%), T4 (n=3, 23.1%), T3 (n=5, 38.5%) and T2 (n=3, 23.1%). Nodal involvement was seen in 80%. Indications for immunotherapy included unresectable (n=6, 40%), palliative (n=5, 33.3%), and adjuvant (n=1, 6.7%) treatment. The most common agents were nivolumab (n=5, 50%) and pembrolizumab (n=3, 30%).
At a mean follow-up of 13 months, 7 patients (43.8%) had died, while one achieved a complete clinical response.

Conclusion:
Immunotherapy is emerging as a vital treatment option for patients with unresectable or metastatic head and neck cancer.

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