Update in pediatric nasopharyngeal undifferentiated carcinoma

Br J Radiol. 2019 Oct;92(1102):20190107. doi: 10.1259/bjr.20190107. Epub 2019 Jul 31.

Abstract

Many of the principles established in adults with undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) apply to children, adolescents and young adults. However, NPC in young patients should be distinguished from the adult form by several points. This review focuses mainly on differences between adult and pediatric NPC. The role of biology and genetics in pediatric NPC is discussed. Systemic treatment modalities including type of chemotherapy induction, timing of treatment, role of immunotherapy as adjuvant treatment, or in relapsing/ metastatic diseases are reported. Radiation modalities (doses, techniques…) in children are also reviewed. Long-term effects including secondary cancers are finally be discussed in this young NPC population.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Child
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / genetics
  • Humans
  • Induction Chemotherapy
  • Interferon-beta / therapeutic use
  • Maintenance Chemotherapy
  • Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma / genetics
  • Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma / therapy*
  • Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma / virology
  • Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / genetics
  • Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / virology
  • Neoplasm Staging / methods
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects
  • Radiotherapy / methods
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Interferon-beta