Overview
Known risk factors inducing squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck are tabacco and alcohol intake. However, the incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV) related oropharyngeal carcinomas is increasing. It is known that HPV+ and HPV- tumors have a different reaction to (chemo)radiotherapy. The exact mechanisms underlying these differences is not yet known but might be caused by changes in vascularity. Therefore the vasculature is imaged with the help of a study specific Gallium-68-DOTA-(RGD)2 PET/CT scan and a CT perfusion scan.
Description
The incidence of Human Papilloma Virus positive (HPV+) oropharyngeal Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is rising and it has become evident that this type of cancer represents a subgroup of HNSCC that is characterized by a more favourable prognosis, mediated by a distinct tumour microenvironment, compared to patients with HPV negative (HPV-) tumours. However, the exact mechanisms underlying this improved treatment outcome and the potential role of the tumour microenvironment are not fully understood yet. Imaging of v3 integrin expression will obtain more insight in the differences in tumour microenvironment between HPV+ and HPV- oropharyngeal HNSCC. CT perfusion provides additional characterisation of this tumour microenvironment. Therefore, these techniques may have the potential to predict response to treatment and might possibly steer treatment decisions in future clinical trials.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Proven squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx
- p-16 immunohistochemistry analysis
- Tumour lesion of at least 1.0 cm in diameter
- Planned chemoradiotherapy as primary treatment
- Ability to provide written informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
- Contra-indications for PET
- Contra-indications for administration of iodine-containing contrast agents
- Other serious illness that can affect the scans