Abstract

M. Layachi*, M. Amzerin, S. Balde, N. Naqos and F. Z. El Mrabet

ABSTRACT

Nasopharyngeal carcinomas, dominated by the undifferentiated subtype, are a specific entity that differs from other head and neck cancers; they present complex epidemiological characteristics, with an unusual geographical distribution and a multifactorial etiopathogeny, as well as evolutive particularities with a high rate of invasion and metastasis requiring an exhaustive staging work-up and leading to a frequent failure of our therapeutic management. This management is based on radiotherapy, which remains the mainstay of treatment for localized nasopharyngeal carcinomas. With more precise intensity modulation techniques, locoregional control has been improved. Treatments combining chemotherapy and radiotherapy according to different modalities (concomitant, induction and/or adjuvant)) have improved disease-free survival and overall survival in locally advanced stages, while further therapeutic advances are needed for better treatment of recurrent and/or metastatic disease. Immune checkpoint inhibitors represent a first step in this way despite the absence of predictive factors of response.