Quality-of-life considerations in treatment of unresectable, recurrent head and neck cancer.
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.
McLarnon
Claire
C
Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Trust, Freeman Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. clairemrennison@hotmail.com
Kulloo
Praneta
P
Mehanna
Hisham
H
Kelly
Charles
C
Paleri
Vinidh
V
D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000379:methods; D011788:Quality of Life; D013727:Terminal Care / Q000941:ethics / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome