New CT Imaging Technique Enhances Treatment Options for Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancers, particularly those affecting the mouth, nose, and throat, are increasingly prevalent in the United States, especially among younger populations. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 60,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, with 20% occurring in individuals under the age of 55. A recent study sheds light on a novel approach that could assist oncologists in predicting treatment responses, potentially leading to better survival rates for patients.

The research, published in the journal Scientific Reports, was conducted by a team from the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) and the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center (UMGCCC). The study focused on analyzing pre-treatment CT scans of patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) to identify specific radiomic biomarkers that can indicate the aggressiveness of the cancer and its likelihood of responding to treatment.

CT scans are routinely used as a diagnostic tool for HNSCC, aiding oncologists in devising personalized treatment strategies. This research analyzed the data from CT scans of 203 patients at UMGCCC and 77 patients at the MD Anderson Cancer Center dating back to 2003. Utilizing advanced radiomics, the researchers applied sophisticated mathematical and statistical techniques to uncover tumor characteristics that are often not visible through standard imaging methods. These identified biomarkers were then utilized to create predictive models regarding the likelihood of progression-free survival following treatment.

According to the findings, the identification of these radiomic biomarkers may provide crucial insights into which patients are most likely to benefit from specific therapeutic interventions. The senior author of the study emphasized the importance of integrating these prognostic and predictive biomarkers into clinical practice, as they could lead to more targeted treatments and improved patient outcomes.

Despite advancements in treatment options, the five-year survival rate for HNSCC remains around 50%. Factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and certain strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) significantly elevate the risk of developing these cancers.

Standard treatment protocols may include surgical tumor removal, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy, often in combination. However, these interventions can result in severe side effects that may permanently affect a patient's ability to speak, swallow, or see. The study suggests that incorporating radiomic biomarkers into treatment planning might enable oncologists to recommend less invasive approaches, thereby minimizing the risk of lasting adverse effects.

Officials at UMGCCC reiterated their commitment to enhancing outcomes and reducing side effects for patients battling HNSCC and other forms of cancer. They highlighted that extracting imaging biomarkers from standard CT scans represents a non-invasive method that incurs no additional costs for patients.

Future research aims to deepen the understanding of these imaging biomarkers and validate their findings with data from additional institutions. This groundwork is essential before prospective clinical trials can be initiated to evaluate treatment interventions based on the identified imaging biomarkers and prognosis predictions. For instance, patients exhibiting biomarkers indicative of less aggressive disease may be eligible for reduced radiation treatment protocols.

Although preliminary, this study opens promising pathways for identifying new predictors of treatment response and developing non-invasive tools to customize treatment strategies for head and neck cancers.