The researchers divided follow-up into a period of response evaluation and close follow-up, which included the first 6 months after end of treatment, and three phases: 6.0 to 16.5 months (first phase); 16.5 to 25.0 months (second phase); and 25.0 to 99.0 months (third phase). Open follow-up continues after the third phase.
The researchers identified surveillance intervals for each phase for the five patient groups: NPC, HPV+ OPC, HPV– OPC, HPC, and LC. They identified substantially different follow-up intervals for each. The longest intervals were recommended for HPV+ OPC and NPC patients, and the shortest for HPC. Overall, there was a threefold difference in the number of follow-ups recommended among HNC groups.
“Given the limited health care resources and the rising number of patients with head and neck cancer, patient-tailored and evidence-based assessment schedules will benefit both patients and health systems. Further investigation for consensus guidelines is needed, and we hope that the findings of this study will aid in their establishment in the near future,” the authors wrote.
The study is limited by its reliance on retrospective data, and must be validated in other patient populations before it is suitable for clinical practice.
Dr. Clayburgh has no relevant financial disclosures.