title: [Hindering the immune system by tumours in the head and neck area].
abstract: Head and neck tumours possess several mechanisms to hinder an appropriate immune response against the tumour cell. In the first place, the tumour cells attempt to suppress the presentation of tumour-associated antigens to the cells of the immune system. Tumours also have a negative effect on the surface structures of the efferent blood vessel epithelium, thereby inhibiting the recruitment of immune cells. In addition, proteins are secreted capable of inactivating immune cells. These immunosuppressive activities of the tumour result in a deterioration of life expectancy. Several experimental methods to improve the immune response of the patient against tumour cells are currently being explored.
authors.affiliation: Afdeling Algemene en Specialistische Tandheelkunde, Academisch Centrum Tandheelkunde Amsterdam (ACTA)/VU Medisch Centrum.
authors.forename: J D M
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Baas
authors.forename: H S
authors.initials: HS
authors.lastname: Brand
mesh_terms: D000951:Antigens, Neoplasm / Q000276:immunology*; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D059016:Tumor Microenvironment / Q000276:immunology
chemical_list: D000951:Antigens, Neoplasm