Current innovations in head and neck cancer: From diagnostics to therapeutics

Abstract

Background: Head and neck cancers (HNC) account for a significant global health burden, with increasing incidence rates and complex treatment requirements. Traditional diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, while effective, often result in substantial morbidity and limitations in personalized care. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest innovations in diagnostics and therapeutic strategies for HNC from 2015 to 2024.

Methods: A review of literature focused on pe-reviewed journals, clinical trial databases, and oncology conference proceedings. Key areas include molecular diagnostics, imaging technologies, minimally invasive surgeries, and innovative therapeutic strategies.

Results: Technologies like liquid biopsy next-generation sequencing (NGS) have greatly improved diagnostic accuracy and personalization in HNC care. These advancements have improved survival rates and enhanced patients' quality of life. Personalized therapeutic approaches, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, precision radiation therapy, and surgery, have led to enhanced treatment efficacy while reducing side effects. The integration of AI and machine learning into diagnostics and treatment planning shows promise in optimizing clinical decision-making and predicting treatment outcomes.

Conclusion: The current innovations in diagnostics and therapeutics are reshaping the management of head and neck cancer, offering more tailored and effective approaches to care. Overall, the continuous integration of these innovations in clinical practice is reshaping HNC treatment and improving patient outcomes and survival rates. Future research should focus on further refining these technologies, addressing challenges related to accessibility, and exploring their long-term clinical benefits in diverse patient populations.

Keywords: Diagnostics; Head and neck cancer (HNC); Innovations; Therapeutics.

Figure 1. Extracellular vesicles have potential as biomarkers. The use of liquid biopsies derived from EVs can offer patients with head and neck cancer a non-invasive screening, diagnosis, monitoring, prediction, and prognosis method. With multi-omics studies, saliva or blood EVs can be analyzed, offering tremendous potential for improving patient care [30].

Figure 2. Using extracellular vesicles to treat head and neck cancer [30].