Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is characterized by its intense immune suppression and its elaborate immune escape mechanisms. Due to the fact that survival rates remain low, the role of immunotherapy has become more important and the focus of current clinical studies has shifted toward antibody-based immune checkpoint modulation. Application of immunotherapy in curative settings or for prevention of recurrent disease would be desirable.
Keywords: Head and neck neoplasms; Immunotherapy; Monoclonal antibodies; Programmed cell death 1 receptor; Vaccination.