ADVANCEMENT IN RADIOTHERAPY FOR HEAD AND NECK CANCER MANAGEMENT: A REVIEW

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of side effects on the quality of life (QoL) and psychosocial functioning of patients with oropharyngeal cancer associated with Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and to explore de-escalation procedures in the treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC). Materials and Methods: This study relied on systematic reviews and original research and focused on young-er and older patients with HPV-induced oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) undergoing modern radiotherapy (RT). This study aimed to analyze the impact of side effects on QoL and psychosocial functioning in these patients. De-escalation procedures and their effectiveness in the treatment of HPV-induced OPSCC were investigated. This study examined sophisticated image guidance, adaptive therapies, and precise delivery meth-ods of modern RT. Results: According to the findings, the side effects of modern RT in patients with HPV-induced OPSCC had a significant impact on their QoL and psychosocial functioning. Although the evidence regarding de-escalation pro-cedures is still evolving, it suggests potential benefits in terms of reducing side effects and improving outcomes. The combination of modernization of RT, innovative systemic agents, and expanding therapeutic indications in the recurrent/metastatic context is also promising. Conclusions: Patients with HPV-induced OPSCC undergoing modern RT face considerable challenges related to side effects that affect their QoL and psychosocial well-being. Therefore, exploring de-escalation procedures to mitigate these issues and to improve treatment outcomes is crucial. Further research is required to establish con-clusive evidence regarding the effectiveness of de-escalation procedures and the optimal treatment approaches for HPV-induced OPSCC. Additionally, integrating RT modernization, innovative systemic agents, and expanding therapeutic indications holds great potential for advancing HNC treatment in recurrent/metastatic settings.