Review of emerging biomarkers in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in the era of immunotherapy and targeted therapy

Jason Chia Hsun Hsieh*, Hung Ming Wang, Min Hsien Wu, Kai Ping Chang, Pei Hung Chang, Chun Ta Liao, Chi Ting Liau

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal Article peer-review

62 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Biomarkers in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) emerge rapidly in recent years, especially for new targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Methods: Recent, relevant peer-reviewed evidence were critically reviewed and summarized. Results: This review article briefly introduces essential biomarker concepts, including purposes and classifications (predictive, prognostic, and diagnostic markers), and the phases of biomarker development. We summarize current biomarkers in order of clinical utility; p16 and human papillomavirus status remain the most important and validated biomarkers in HNSCC. The rationale for biomarker study design continues to evolve with technological advances, especially whole-exome or whole-genomic sequencing. Noninvasive body fluid and liquid biopsy biomarkers appear to hold strong potential for development as tools for early cancer detection, cancer diagnosis, monitoring of disease recurrence, and outcome prediction. In light of discrepancies among different technologies, standardized approaches are needed. Conclusion: Biomarkers from cancer tissue or blood in HNSCC could direct new anticancer therapies.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)19-45
Number of pages27
JournalHead and Neck
Volume41
Issue numberS1
DOIs
StatePublished - 01 10 2019

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Keywords

  • biomarker
  • cisplatin
  • head and neck cancer
  • immunotherapy
  • liquid biopsy
  • targeted therapy

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