Head and neck cancers are a group of tumors that affect various parts of the head and neck area, including the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, and salivary glands. These cancers can be challenging to treat due to their location and the vital functions that these parts of the body perform.
Fortunately, in 2023, several innovative treatments are emerging, giving patients new hope for effective cancer management and improved quality of life. Continue reading to find out more.
Immunotherapy: Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment
Immunotherapy has been a hot topic in cancer research for several years now, and it’s proving to be a game-changer for head and neck cancers
Immunotherapy drugs work by boosting the immune system’s ability to recognize and attack cancer cells. Currently, there are several immunotherapy drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for head and neck cancers, such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab. These drugs can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Targeted Therapy: Personalized Treatment for Head and Neck Cancers
Drugs used in targeted therapy for cancer are aimed directly at the molecules known to play a role in the development and spread of the disease.
Targeted therapy aims to kill cancer cells while sparing the normal ones, as opposed to the blanket approach of chemotherapy. This method yields superior therapeutic results with minimal adverse effects.
Medical professionals such as the cancer experts at Moffitt Cancer Center have been using targeted therapy for several years now, and in 2023, more targeted therapy drugs are expected to become available for head and neck cancers.
For instance, the FDA recently approved a new drug called selpercatinib for the treatment of specific types of thyroid cancer; and currently, it is also being studied for use in the treatment of cancers of the head and neck.
Radiation Therapy: New Techniques and Technologies
Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It’s been a mainstay of head and neck cancer treatment for many years, and in 2023, new techniques and technologies are emerging that are making radiation therapy more effective and less toxic.
One such technology is proton therapy, which delivers radiation to the tumor while sparing healthy tissues. Proton therapy is particularly useful for head and neck cancers, as it can minimize radiation exposure to critical structures including the spinal cord and brainstem.
Another technique is intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which delivers precise doses of radiation to the tumor while avoiding nearby healthy tissues.
This approach reduces side effects such as dry mouth and difficulty swallowing, which are common with traditional radiation therapy.
Surgical Innovations: Less Invasive Procedures
Surgery is often used to remove head and neck tumors, but it can be a challenging procedure due to the complex anatomy of the area.
In recent years, several innovative surgical techniques have emerged that are making head and neck cancer surgery less invasive and more effective.
One such technique is transoral robotic surgery (TORS), which uses a robot to remove tumors through the mouth. TORS is less invasive than traditional surgery, resulting in less pain, faster recovery, and better cosmetic outcomes.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy is another method for detecting lymph node metastases without extensive surgery. The risk of side effects is minimized, and the lymphatic function is preserved, because only the lymph nodes most likely to contain cancer cells are treated.
Read Also
- The Scary Symptoms of a Brain Injury to Look Out For After an Accident
In the wake of an accident, amidst the flurry of emotions and concerns, one often overlooks the potential signs of a silent threat, a brain injury. Beyond the visible wounds, these injuries can manifest in subtle yet alarming symptoms. From persistent headaches to disruptions in vision or speech, the indicators are varied and sometimes cryptic.… Read more: The Scary Symptoms of a Brain Injury to Look Out For After an Accident - Early Identification of Mental Health Issues: The Importance of Timely Intervention
In the rapid pace of contemporary life, pausing to check in on our mental health is crucial. Often, we might dismiss the early signs of mental health problems, thinking they’re simply the result of a stressful period or a few bad days. However, early recognition of these signs can significantly impact managing these issues and… Read more: Early Identification of Mental Health Issues: The Importance of Timely Intervention - How Developments in Technology Can Improve the Lives of People with Autism
It’s easy to focus on the negatives of the modern world, especially as far as modern technology often looks to change what you’re familiar with, but it’s also valuable to recognize the swathe of improvements that these developments bring. In particular, people who have conditions like autism might find that there are more options and… Read more: How Developments in Technology Can Improve the Lives of People with Autism - Hurt in a Truck Accident? Here’s How You Can Rebuild Your Life
The sheer size of a truck proves that it is capable of causing irreversible damage to your life. No aspect of your life is immune to the consequences of a truck accident. No matter the level of damage you’ve suffered, filing a truck accident lawsuit can help you gain some sort of compensation that can… Read more: Hurt in a Truck Accident? Here’s How You Can Rebuild Your Life - Top 10 Dental Services Every Clinic Should Offer
In today’s dynamic society, dental clinics serve as essential health care hubs, offering solutions that transcend traditional services like teeth cleaning and cavity filling. They offer a wide array of services vital for patients’ health and confidence. Understanding the top services that can set a clinic apart is key. Here are ten essential dental services… Read more: Top 10 Dental Services Every Clinic Should Offer - How Can Narrative Techniques Enhance Scientific Communication?
Effective communication in science involves storytelling that makes complex information relatable and understandable to diverse audiences. Narrative techniques can bridge the gap between scientific concepts and public understanding, transforming how information is conveyed and perceived. These techniques enrich the narrative, making scientific findings more accessible and engaging. This approach is crucial for scientists who aim… Read more: How Can Narrative Techniques Enhance Scientific Communication?
