Survival benefit of post-operative chemotherapy for intermediate-risk advanced stage head and neck cancer differs with patient age
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines recommend that head and neck mucosal squamous cell carcinoma patients with extranodal extension (ENE) or positive margins should receive post-operative chemoradiation (POCRT) [1]. These guidelines are based on the results of two landmark randomized controlled trials that demonstrated that these high-risk patients have improved disease-free survival and progression-free survival when treated with POCRT compared with post-operative radiation therapy (PORT) alone [2 –5]. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 21, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Michelle M. Chen, A. Dimitrios Colevas, Uchechukwu Megwalu, Vasu Divi Source Type: research

Accuracy of computer-assisted surgery in mandibular reconstruction: A systematic review
Mandibular defects after ablative tumor removal can lead to severe functional and aesthetic deficits, negatively affecting quality of life [1]. The gold standard for reconstruction of mandibular defects is osteocutaneous free tissue transfer with titanium plate fixation [2]. The fibula, iliac crest, and scapula are the three main donor sites for vascularized bone. Currently, the most common mandibular reconstruction approach is the fibular free flap (FFF) [2 –4], which was introduced by Hidalgo in 1989 [5]. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 20, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Gustaaf J.C. van Baar, Tymour Forouzanfar, Niels P.T.J. Liberton, Henri A.H. Winters, Frank K.J. Leusink Tags: Review Source Type: research

Cellular-based immunotherapy in Epstein-Barr virus induced nasopharyngeal cancer
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) occurs worldwide with approximately 87,000 incident cases and 51,000 deaths annually, representing about 0.7% of the global cancer burden [1]. A distinct racial and geographical variation is evident with a higher incidence rate in both southern China and Southeast Asia. This geographic predisposition is suggestive of both genetic and environmental risk factors in its pathogenesis. For instance, several at risk HLA genes such as the HLA-A subtype; and exposure to nitrosamines and nitrosamine precursors in the diet have been reported as risk factors of developing NPC. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 20, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Andrea Zhe Ern Lee, Louise Soo Yee Tan, Chwee Ming Lim Tags: Review Source Type: research

Three-dimensional microarchitecture and local mineralization of human jaws affected by bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis
Recently, we showed that osteocyte lacunar volume and distribution, as well as mineralized bone mass density, are dependent on the specific region of the jaw in patients suffering from bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) [1]. Indeed, a significant heterogeneity was found in terms of osteocyte lacunar morphology, most likely due to the variety of mechanical loading in the different regions. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 19, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Alessandra Giuliani, Giovanna Iezzi, Marco Mozzati, Giorgia Gallesio, Serena Mazzoni, Giuliana Tromba, Franco Zanini, Adriano Piattelli, Carmen Mortellaro Tags: Letter to the editor Source Type: research

Induction chemotherapy with carboplatin, nab-paclitaxel and cetuximab for at least N2b nodal status or surgically unresectable squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Although induction studies of TPF in SCCHN have not improved outcomes compared to chemoradiotherapy alone, phase II studies of weekly carboplatin (CbP), paclitaxel and cetuximab (C225) have shown promising results. Nano-albumin-paclitaxel (nab-paclitaxel) based chemotherapy has demonstrated a higher response rate (RR) than solvent-based paclitaxel in squamous cell carcinoma of the lung with favorable toxicity. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 18, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Jared Weiss, Jill Gilbert, Allison Mary Deal, Mark Weissler, Chris Hilliard, Bhishamjit Chera, Barbara Murphy, Trevor Hackman, Jay Justin Liao, Juneko Grilley Olson, David Neil Hayes Source Type: research

Potential of web-resource on ‘oral dysplasia and precancer’!
We read the paper “Web-based information on oral dysplasia and precancer of the mouth–Quality and readability” by Alsoghier et al. with great interest and curiosity [1]. Herein, we discuss our views on the topic taking into account the challenges linked to excess information on internet, which can mislead many patients. Moreover, we suggest a web-resource that could also target the clinicians with new updates to help them improve their care for patients. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 18, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Prashanth Panta, Sachin C. Sarode, Gargi S. Sarode, Shankargouda Patil Tags: Letter to the editor Source Type: research

Salivary exosomes as potential biomarkers in cancer
The intercellular communication between cancer cells and surrounding stromal cells is crucial for modulating tumorigenesis as well as for the development and progression of tumour metastasis. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in this cellular cross-talk provides new insights into the identification of valuable biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets that can stop tumour progression [1]. Cell to cell communication by extracellular vesicles is a burgeoning area of research and these are considered key players in mediating communication between tumour cells and healthy, normal cells [2]. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 14, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Soumyalekshmi Nair, Kai Dun Tang, Liz Kenny, Chamindie Punyadeera Tags: Review Source Type: research

Low versus high activity radioiodine remnant ablation for differentiated thyroid carcinoma with gross extrathyroidal extension invading only strap muscles
In decades, radioiodine therapy has been a cornerstone in managing differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) [1]. Recent paradigms on the use of radioiodine therapy have changed, and selective use of radioiodine therapy as postoperative adjuvant therapy is being considered [2]. Although radioiodine therapy is considered reasonably safe compared to other cancer treatment modalities, potential complications cannot be completely eliminated. In addition to early onset adverse effects, there are increasing reports of late onset adverse effects in long term survivors previously treated with radioiodine therapy, including second pri...
Source: Oral Oncology - July 14, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: So Young Park, Hye In Kim, Joon Young Choi, Jun-Ho Choe, Jung-Han Kim, Jee Soo Kim, Young Lyun Oh, Soo Yeon Hahn, Jung Hee Shin, Soo Hyun Ahn, Kyunga Kim, Jong Gill Jeong, Sun Wook Kim, Jae Hoon Chung, Tae Hyuk Kim Source Type: research

Primary carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma of anterior commissure of the larynx
Carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA) is a carcinoma originating from a primary or recurrent benign pleomorphic adenoma [1]. The most common sites of origin are major salivary gland where these represent approximately 3 –5% of all salivary gland neoplasms [1]. Due to the rarity of the disease, no level one evidence based treatment algorithm is present. The main evidence is available from retrospective institutional experiences. Surgery followed by post-operative radiotherapy is the mainstay of the treatment [1,2] . (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 4, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Josef Kovarik, Debra Milne, Max Robinson, Frank Stafford, Muhammad Shahid Iqbal Tags: Letter to the editor Source Type: research

Prospective evaluation of patient reported swallow function with the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (FACT), MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) and the Sydney Swallow Questionnaire (SSQ) in head and neck cancer patients
A number of patient reported outcome (PRO) measurement tools have been created to track both quality of life (QoL) and functional outcomes in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients before, during, and after oncologic treatment. Such instruments are vital for the rigorous comparison of various treatments and interventions across clinical studies of HNC and lend to its ease of use for longitudinal repeat assessments. Consistent utilization of PROs may be particularly critical in light of growing concerns that late treatment toxicity may confer a mortality risk with longer follow-up [1 –3]. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 3, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Luke C. Peng, Xuan Hui, Zhi Cheng, Michael R. Bowers, Joseph Moore, Emilie Cecil, Amanda Choflet, Alex Thompson, Mariah Muse, Ana P. Kiess, Brandi R. Page, Christine G. Gourin, Carole Fakhry, Michal Szczesniak, Julia Maclean, Peter Wu, Ian Cook, Todd R. M Source Type: research

Oral tongue carcinoma among young patients: An analysis of risk factors and survival
Every ear, approximately 11 in 100,000 adults in the United States are diagnosed with oral cavity cancer [1]. Oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) is a common and often lethal form of this disease. OTSCC was traditionally thought to affect men in their 60s and older, after extensive tobacco and alcohol use [2 –5]. Over the past two decades OTSCC incidence has declined in this population due to improved awareness of tobacco-associated risks. However, studies have noted an alarming increase in OTSCC among of young patients, especially white women, over this same time period [6–10]. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 2, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Douglas R. Farquhar, April M. Tanner, Maheer M. Masood, Sagar R. Patel, Trevor G. Hackman, Andrew F. Olshan, Angela L. Mazul, Jose P. Zevallos Source Type: research

Radiation-induced nasopharyngeal ulcers after intensity modulated radiotherapy in primary nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients: A dose-volume-outcome analysis
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common malignancy in Southeast Asia and it is highly sensitive to radiotherapy (RT) [1]. Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) has been widely applied in the field of radiation oncology over the last decade and is considered as a major breakthrough for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) due to its capability of delivering high radiation dose to the target while sparing the adjacent organs [2]. However, complications from radiation therapy can present in early and late phases. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 2, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Yujiao Li, Tingting Xu, Wei Qian, Xueguan Lu, Chaosu Hu Source Type: research

Clinical analysis of second primary gingival squamous cell carcinoma after radiotherapy
Oral cancer has become the sixth most common cancer in the world [1]. In 2015, approximately 45,780 new cases of cancer in the oral cavity and pharynx were reported in the United States. Of these, 8650 died due to cancer-related death [2]. Tobacco abuse and alcohol abuse have been identified as the most important risk factors for oral cancers, especially squamous cell carcinoma [3], as well as DNA oncogenic viruses and habits, such as chewing betel nut [4]. Among those patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma, a fraction was observed to have a history of radiotherapy in head and neck region. (Source: Oral Oncology)
Source: Oral Oncology - July 2, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Xiaoyan Fu, Shuwei Chen, Weichao Chen, Zhongyuan Yang, Ming Song, Hao Li, Huayong Zhang, Fan Yao, Xuan Su, Tianrun Liu, An-Kui Yang Source Type: research

Survival impact and toxicity of metformin in head and neck cancer: An analysis of the SEER-Medicare dataset
The past decade has witnessed both a growing prevalence of head and neck cancer (HNC) driven by the human papillomavirus (HPV) [1,2] and a series of innovations [3 –7] that have enhanced the therapeutic ratio in this disease; however, survival outcomes in the United States remain suboptimal. At a national level, 5-year relative survival rates from cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx remain at or below 66% [8], while even on recent prospective cli nical trials, patients with advanced HNC experience 3-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival rates that fail to exceed 76% and 62%, respectively [9...
Source: Oral Oncology - July 2, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: William A. Stokes, Megan Eguchi, Arya Amini, Mohammad K. Hararah, Ding Ding, Jessica D. McDermott, Cathy J. Bradley, Sana D. Karam Source Type: research

Detection of AR-V7 transcript with RNA in situ hybridization in human salivary duct cancer
The androgen receptor (AR) is a nuclear steroid receptor that binds to testosterone and dihydrotestosterone and regulates the transcription of genes leading to cell growth, differentiation and survival. AR serves as an important oncogenic signal in prostate cancers and apocrine breast cancers. Salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) is a rare subtype of head and neck cancer that is defined by an apocrine phenotype, with AR positivity by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in up to 98% of cases [1]. A recent clinical trial with leuprorelin acetate and bicalutamide has shown promising activity with an overall response rate of 42% in AR-positiv...
Source: Oral Oncology - June 28, 2018 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Hyunseok Kang, Emmanuel S. Antonarakis, Jun Luo, Qizhi Zheng, Lisa Rooper, Angelo M. De Marzo, William H. Westra, Tamara L. Lotan Tags: Letter to the editor Source Type: research