[Basaloid squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck]. / Etat des lieux sur les carcinomes basaloïdes ORL.

Basaloid squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) are a rare variant of SCC of the head and neck. Their histological characteristics have been described by Wain in 1986 and are reported in the 2005 WHO classification. A poorer prognosis of BSCC has been reported. Two recent case-control studies have shown a higher rate of distant metastases (15-40%, mean over 30%). Conversely, BSCC have similar or better locoregional control rates, a relatively good radiosensitivity and locoregional control. The role of chemotherapy in the neoadjuvant, concomitant or adjuvant setting needs to be redefined due to high metastatic failure rates; chest CT or PET CT are recommended at baseline and every 6-month during follow-up. Some subgroups of BSCC (oropharynx in particular) are more likely to be associated with oncogenic human papilloma virus HPV16. The determination of BSCC head and neck subgroups by HPV status is critical for the prognosis. The basaloid sub-type of squamous cell carcinomas owing to its particular behavior, should be taken into account while deciding the optimal therapeutic strategy.

[Locally advanced head and neck cancers: recommendations of an expert panel and perspectives for the use of TPF regimen (docetaxel, cisplatin and fluoro-uracil) as induction therapy]. / Cancers des voies aérodigestives supérieures (VADS) localement avancés: recommandations d'un panel d'experts et de perspectives pour l'utilisation du schéma TPF (docétaxel, cisplatine, 5-fluoro-uracile) en induction.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the present article was to evaluate indications, regimens, treatment modalities, and predictive factors of response to treatment in locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). METHODS: An expert panel including otolaryngology and head and neck surgery specialists, oncologists, radiotherapists and biologists analyzed the literature providing a synthesis and giving some recommendations. SYNTHESIS: Findings from the main randomized phase III trials highlight that the TPF regimen (docetaxel, cisplatin, fluorouracil) represent a preferential option when induction chemotherapy is indicated in either operable or non-operable patients. Given the potential fragility of patients presenting with SCCHN, treatment modalities in routine use require applying preventive measures and tailored follow-up according to each patient's profile. As regards predictive factors of response to TPF regimen, no factor is currently validated, but ongoing trials should provide better knowledge. CONCLUSION: Progresses in induction chemotherapy have allowed improving the prognosis of patients with locally advanced SCCHN. The TPF regimen represents a major improvement in this indication, and ongoing strategic clinical trials should refine its indications.