Quality-of-life considerations in treatment of unresectable, recurrent head and neck cancer

Abstract

Recurrent, unresectable head and neck squamous cancer is a complex problem. Evidence for the efficacy of treatment is scant in this area and given the large number of patient and tumor variables involved in the recurrent tumor, several factors play a role in deciding the choice of management. The results of treatment are very poor and associated with significant toxicity. Thus, the quality of life outcome following treatment should play a major role in the choice of treatment. Unfortunately, generation of quality-of-life data is hampered by several factors, not least of which are the ethical issues raised by end of life care. This article reviews the relevant literature, summarizes existing evidence and draws conclusions, identifies gaps in the knowledge and offers guidance for further research.

Keywords::

• head and neck cancer
• palliative care
• quality of death
• quality of life
• recurrent head and neck cancer
• unresectable head and neck cancer

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.