How Can We Best Manage Patients With Oligometastatic Disease In Head And Neck Cancer?

Abstract

Background: Oligometastatic disease in head and neck cancer is a new entity that is beginning to gather significant attention. It is a concept that is defined as <5 lesions with control of the primary lesion. Methods: In this paper, we explore the literature for the presentation and management of patients presenting with oligometastatic disease in the head and neck from non-head and neck primaries. Results: The most common infraclavicular primary tumours to metastasise to the head and neck are breast, lung and renal carcinomas. Management of these oligometastatic lesions is currently very variable and surgery and/or ablative therapies can in fact be associated with good survival outcomes or locoregional control compared to patients with widespread metastatic disease. Conclusion: The recommendations in this paper will help towards establishing clear guidelines in the future for surgical and ablative therapies for these patients.