title: Survey of the use of tests for human papilloma virus and epidermal growth factor receptor for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in UK head and neck multidisciplinary teams.
abstract: Human papilloma virus (HPV), usually type 16, has emerged as an aetiological and prognostic marker of oropharyngeal carcinomas, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been associated with poor prognosis in patients with carcinoma of the head and neck. This makes the identification of cancers associated with these biomarkers important in the management of patients. We surveyed UK head and neck multidisciplinary teams by email using an online form to assess the use of biomarker testing. Overall 33 cancer networks were contacted and 28 (85%) responded. HPV tests were used in departments by 22 (79%) of our respondents, while only 3 (11%) used EGFR tests. The commonest reasons for not using them were lack of availability and lack of clinical indication.
authors: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, North West London Hospitals NHS Trust, Northwick Park Hospital, Watford Rd, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3UJ, UK.
authors: Abdul
authors: A
authors: Ahmed
authors: Luke
authors: L
authors: Cascarini
authors: Ann
authors: A
authors: Sandison
authors: Peter
authors: P
authors: Clarke
mesh_terms: D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000032:analysis*; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000175:diagnosis*; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000032:analysis*; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D052162:Human papillomavirus 16 / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D006801:Humans; D009959:Oropharyngeal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D030361:Papillomavirus Infections / Q000175:diagnosis*; D011379:Prognosis
chemical_list: D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D066246:ErbB Receptors