49 - What Special Considerations Are Needed in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer?

Abstract

Patients with head and neck cancer have complex care needs and a course that is often marked by relapse and recurrence. They may experience a wide array of physical as well as psychological symptoms from the cancer itself or from cancer-directed therapies, many of which are unique to this patient population and related to the location of these tumors and interference with activities of daily living. Palliative care integration should occur early in the disease trajectory to assist with symptom alleviation and provide support to both patients and families. A broad overview of head and neck cancer epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment strategies is provided here, as well a review of the common symptoms that patients with head and neck cancer experience and best practice recommendations for their management. Interdisciplinary team support and collaboration is especially important to provide comprehensive oncological and palliative care to these patients, with the goal of controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. Open communication with patients and their families throughout the disease course regarding prognosis and treatment expectations can facilitate goals of care conversations and align treatment plans with patient values.