Head & Neck Cancer
Immunotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer
Immunotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer is a new treatment which is showing great promise in patients over recent years.
Head and Neck immunotherapy is a type of treatment that was originally evaluated in patients with skin cancer and lung cancers but it’s showing great utility in patients with head and neck cancer. In a recent trial immunotherapy doubled survival rates compared to chemotherapy. [https://www.royalmarsden.nhs.uk/rm-magazine/game-changing-drug-doubles-head-and-neck-cancer-survival]
What are the benefits of immunotherapy in head and neck cancer?
The role of immunotherapy in head and neck cancer is in treatment of patients with recurrent or advanced head and neck cancer and in patients for whom other treatments are not suitable.
Immunotherapy drugs for head and neck cancer work by stimulating the body’s immune system to fight against cancer using its own immune cells.
This treatment is given as an intravenous infusion typically every two or three weeks, and in some patients, this may continue for up to two years.
The treatment activates the body’s immune system through stimulation of specific immune cells and these, in turn, attack the cancer.
How is immunotherapy for head and neck cancer given?
Patients receiving immunotherapy for head and neck cancer are typically treated every two to three weeks by day case intravenous infusion. Responses to treatment are assessed by CT or MRI scanning approximately every three months. If successful, immunotherapy for head and neck cancer may continue for up to two years.
What are the success rates of immunotherapy in head and neck cancer?
Patients who are successfully treated with immunotherapy often notice stabilisation of their disease after a few weeks, and then, over the following months, tumours can shrink as the immune system takes its effect.
Some patients experience complete resolution of cancer within a few months. Even after the completion of immunotherapy for advanced head and neck cancer (the typical treatment duration is two years), then if patients are responding well, they can remain in long-term remission for several years after immunotherapy treatment. We believe that given the way immunotherapy works for head and neck cancer, ongoing remission is often seen even when immunotherapy is discontinued.
What are the biomarkers used to predict response to immunotherapy in head and neck cancer?
The tumour biomarker PDL-1 is measured on the tumour biopsy, and the higher the marker number, the better the chance of response. Responses can be seen in HPV-positive and HPV-negative tumours.
What are the limitations of immunotherapy for head and neck cancer?
Immunotherapy side effects are generally mild, and immunotherapy for recurrent head and neck cancer is a well-tolerated treatment. It has much less side effects than conventional chemotherapy treatment.
Fatigue is the most common side effect in around 85% of patients receiving head and neck immunotherapy.
Other side effects are rare, but occasionally, the immune system can become over-stimulated, which starts to affect the body’s own organ, leading to inflammation of tissues such as the lungs, bowels, thyroid gland and sometimes other organs.
Long-term side effects of immunotherapy for head and neck cancers are rare.
Can immunotherapy be used in combination with other treatments for head and neck cancer?
Immunotherapy for head and neck cancer can be combined with chemotherapy. This is more commonly required if the cancer is fast-growing or in a critical part of the body. Immunotherapy drugs such as Nivolumab and Pembrolizumab have both been combined with chemotherapy or given alone.
Second Opinions for Immunotherapy in Head & Neck Cancer
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with head and neck cancer and are considering immunotherapy as a treatment option, seeking a second opinion can be a crucial step in your journey. Immunotherapy is a rapidly evolving field, and while it has shown remarkable success in certain cases, it is not suitable for everyone. A second opinion from a specialist can provide clarity, reassurance, and access to the latest advancements in treatment.
Why Consider a Second Opinion?
- Confirm Your Diagnosis & Treatment Plan – Different oncologists may have varying perspectives on your case. A second opinion ensures that your diagnosis is accurate and that all available treatment options have been considered.
- Peace of Mind – Making treatment decisions can be overwhelming. A second opinion offers confidence in your choices and ensures you’re receiving the most advanced and appropriate care.
What to Expect from a Second Opinion Consultation
During your consultation, we will:
- Review your medical history and current diagnosis
- Discuss your eligibility for immunotherapy and whether it is the best option for you
- Consider other advanced treatment combinations (e.g., immunotherapy with radiotherapy or chemotherapy)
- Explore clinical trials that might offer access to new therapies
- Provide a clear, detailed treatment recommendation tailored to your specific case.
How to Arrange Your Second Opinion
If you are considering immunotherapy for head and neck cancer and want expert guidance, booking a second opinion is simple. Whether you’ve already started treatment or are still exploring your options, I’m here to help you make an informed, confident decision.
Get in Touch today to schedule your consultation and take control of your treatment journey.
