Organization of primary care pathway in head and neck oncology (short version): Organization of chemotherapy in head and neck oncology

Chemotherapy may be indicated in head and neck cancer: as induction, associated with radiation therapy, or as a palliative solution, in case of local or locoregional progression if surgery and radiation therapy are contraindicated, and/or in case of metastatic progression. The most frequently used anticancer agents are platins, antimetabolites (5-fluorouracil, methotrexate) and taxanes. For several years now, in some indications, chemotherapy may be associated with targeted anti-EGFR antibody therapy. Prescription of chemotherapy and follow-up in head and neck cancer requires particular attention due to comorbidities related to alcohol abuse and smoking and frequent denutrition. Management thus requires close cooperation between the ENT physician, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists.