The Role of Multicancer Early Detection Tests in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case Series.
case_series · Level IV
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- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 42206762.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1002/hed.70337.
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Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) lacks an established screening program, and most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages. Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood-based assays represent a promising approach, yet real-world clinical experience with MCED-identified HNSCC remains limited. We retrospectively reviewed patients referred to our Otolaryngology department with a positive Galleri MCED result indicating HNSCC between January 2020 and March 2026. Physical exam findings, flexible laryngoscopy findings, imaging, and treatment data for each patient was reviewed. Three patients were included in this case report. All three patients were diagnosed with early-stage p16+ oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma despite absent symptoms and largely unremarkable physical examinations. All underwent successful resection with no evidence of recurrent disease at early follow-up. MCED testing can potentially identify early-stage HNSCC in asymptomatic patients. Otolaryngologists should be prepared to systematically evaluate patients referred following a positive MCED result.