Abstract
Human papilloma virus (HPV), usually type 16, has emerged as an aetiological and prognostic
marker of oropharyngeal carcinomas, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has
been associated with poor prognosis in patients with carcinoma of the head and neck.
This makes the identification of cancers associated with these biomarkers important
in the management of patients. We surveyed UK head and neck multidisciplinary teams
by email using an online form to assess the use of biomarker testing. Overall 33 cancer
networks were contacted and 28 (85%) responded. HPV tests were used in departments
by 22 (79%) of our respondents, while only 3 (11%) used EGFR tests. The commonest
reasons for not using them were lack of availability and lack of clinical indication.
Keywords
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References
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: March 30, 2011
Accepted:
February 7,
2011
Identification
Copyright
© 2011 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
