Immune Evasion Mechanism as a Guide for Immunotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer

Korean Journal of Head & Neck Oncology 2017;33(1):1-5.
Published online May 30, 2017.

Hyun Chang

두경부암에서 면역회피 기전과 면역항암제 치료

장현

Abstract

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common cancer globally with high morbidity and mortality. Immune surveillance is well recognized as an important mechanism to prevent development or progression of HNSCC. HNSCC can escape the immune system through multiple mechanisms including development of tolerance in T cells and inhibition of T-cell-related pathways, generally referred to as checkpoint inhibitors. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated a clear advantage in advanced HNSCC patients treated with immune checkpoint blockade. Right at the front of the new era of immunotherapy, we will review current knowledge of immune escape mechanisms and clinical implication for HNSCC.

Key Words: Head and neck cancer, Immune surveillance, Immune escape, Immuno-oncology drug