Lancet

Cancer research · Nasopharyngeal carcinoma

The widespread application of intensity‑modulated radiotherapy and optimisation of chemotherapy strategies (induction, concurrent, adjuvant) have contributed to improved survival with reduced toxicities.

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is characterised by a distinct geographical distribution and is particularly prevalent in East and Southeast Asia. Epidemiological trends over the past decade have shown a gradual but progressive decline in incidence and a substantial reduction in mortality, likely reflecting lifestyle and environmental changes, enhanced understanding of pathogenesis and risk factors, population screening, advances in imaging techniques, and individualized comprehensive chemoradiotherapy strategies. In particular, plasma Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) DNA has been used for population screening, prognostication, predicting treatment response for therapeutic adaptation, and disease surveillance. The widespread application of intensity‑modulated radiotherapy and optimisation of chemotherapy strategies (induction, concurrent, adjuvant) have contributed to improved survival with reduced toxicities. Among the existing developments in novel therapeutics, immune checkpoint therapies have achieved breakthroughs for treating recurrent or metastatic disease, representing a promising future direction in NPC.

These advances in radiotherapy and chemotherapy have significantly improved outcomes for patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, reducing both mortality and treatment‑related toxicities.

Evidence level: Irányelv / elfogadott gyakorlat. Magas szintű klinikai elfogadottság.

Original source

Related signals