Does HPV-status play a role in selection of immune checkpoint inhibitors in upfront treatment of metastatic head and neck cancer?
How do HPV-positive patients respond to ICI compared to HPV-negative in your experience?
Answer from: Medical Oncologist at Academic Institution
In my practice, HPV-status in isolation does not play a role in selection of immune checkpoint inhibitors in initial treatment of recurrent/metastatic head/neck squamous cell cancer (R/M HNSCC). The current FDA approval for first-line management of R/M HNSCC is for pembrolizumab in combination ...
Answer from: Medical Oncologist at Academic Institution
I agree with Dr. @Kedar Kirtane. To add one point, the only HPV positive patients who demonstrate a more favorable response to those who tumors have high mutational burdens. Otherwise, in my practice, as his, I base treatment checkpoint inhibitors on PDL-1 expression, e.g. CPS.