Updated National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines for treatment of head and neck cancers 2010-2017

Abstract

Introduction: The diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations have been changing over the years to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life of Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) patients. Aim: The aim of this study was to present currently recommended Head and Neck Cancer treatment guidelines based on the literature review with particular emphasis on novel approaches the NCCN algorithms. Material and methods: The review of literature covering articles published in the last five years and pointing out essential changes in HNC treatment regarding evidence based medicine. The study focused on the analysis of novel approaches for the particular primaries, the implementation of biological therapies and personalized cancer therapies. Results: Updates in the oncological NCCN guidelines for all ENT primaries except major salivary glands and subglottis are based on knowledge derived from the basic sciences, clinical trials and the best evidence available currently. The latest recommendations emphasize value of biological therapies use.