Cancer Treatment

Oropharyngeal Cancer: Current Treatments and Future Progress

4 min read
Image of lungs

Oropharyngeal Cancer: Current Treatments and Future Progress

Oropharyngeal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the oropharynx, which is the part of the throat at the back of the mouth. It includes the base of the tongue, tonsils, soft palate, and the walls of the throat. This type of cancer is on the rise, with an increasing number of cases being reported each year.

Epidemiology

Oropharyngeal cancer is more commonly found in men than in women, and it typically affects individuals over the age of 55. However, recent studies have shown that there is an alarming rise in cases occurring among younger individuals, specifically due to the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer now accounts for a significant proportion of new cases.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of oropharyngeal cancer usually begins with a physical examination and a comprehensive medical history review. This is followed by various diagnostic procedures, including imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans. A biopsy of the affected tissue is then performed to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Treatment

The treatment approach for oropharyngeal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, overall health of the patient, and other individual factors. The main treatment modalities include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, a combination of these therapies may be recommended.

Surgery involves removing the tumor and surrounding tissues. This may be followed by reconstructive surgery to restore the appearance and functionality of the affected area. Radiation therapy utilizes high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells, while chemotherapy uses drugs to kill the cancer cells or inhibit their growth.

In recent years, advancements in treatment options have led to the emergence of targeted therapies and immunotherapies for oropharyngeal cancer. Targeted therapies specifically target cancer cells, blocking the growth signals that contribute to tumor growth. Immunotherapies, on the other hand, boost the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.

Current Treatments for Oropharyngeal Cancer

Several drugs are currently used in the treatment of oropharyngeal cancer, either alone or in combination. These include:

  • 1. Cisplatin: A chemotherapy drug that is commonly used in the treatment of various cancers, including oropharyngeal cancer. It works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing.
  • 2. Carboplatin: Another chemotherapy drug that works in a similar way to cisplatin. It is often used as an alternative for patients who cannot tolerate cisplatin.
  • 3. Paclitaxel: Used in combination with cisplatin or carboplatin, paclitaxel is a chemotherapy drug that inhibits the growth of cancer cells.
  • 4. Radiation therapy: High-energy beams are directed at the tumor to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy.

Promising Future Progress: Oropharyngeal Cancer Trials

In the realm of clinical trials, several potential future drugs for the treatment of oropharyngeal cancer are currently being investigated. These late-stage clinical trials hold promise for improving outcomes in patients. Some of these drugs include:

  • 1. Pembrolizumab: A novel immunotherapy drug that directly targets the PD-1 protein found on cancer cells. It helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, leading to better treatment responses.
  • 2. Nivolumab: Another immunotherapy drug that works similarly to pembrolizumab by inhibiting the PD-1 protein. Clinical trials have shown promising results in terms of response rates and overall survival.
  • 3. Afatinib: A targeted therapy drug that blocks proteins involved in cancer cell growth. It has shown potential in improving outcomes in patients with recurrent or metastatic oropharyngeal cancer.
  • 4. Cetuximab: An immunotherapy drug that targets specific proteins on cancer cells, inhibiting their growth. It is frequently used in combination with radiation therapy.

It is important to note that these drugs are still undergoing rigorous testing and are not yet approved for widespread use. However, their potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for oropharyngeal cancer is promising.

In conclusion, the management of oropharyngeal cancer involves various treatment modalities, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Current treatments such as cisplatin, carboplatin, paclitaxel, and radiation therapy have been effective in managing the disease. Furthermore, ongoing clinical trials investigating new drugs, such as pembrolizumab, nivolumab, afatinib, and cetuximab, offer hope for improved outcomes and future progress in the treatment of oropharyngeal cancer.