Predictive value of tumor budding in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: an update

Virchows Arch. 2023 Oct;483(4):441-449. doi: 10.1007/s00428-023-03630-6. Epub 2023 Aug 29.

Abstract

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma forms an anatomically and functionally complex group of malignancies. The significant local aggressiveness and frequent regional relapses motivate ongoing research to identify more reliable and sensitive prognostic and predictive biomarkers. One emerging area of cancer biology is the evaluation of tumor budding at the advancing invasive front of various types of epithelial cancers. Recent studies suggest that tumor budding is a relatively common phenomenon in cancer progression and that it may have important prognostic implications for patients due to its potential to provide valuable insights into the biology and clinical behavior of head and neck cancer. In this review, we aim to provide information about tumor budding in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Thus, we hope to shed light on the complex biology of these malignancies, as well as aiding diagnostic, classification, and better characterization and thereby, looking for new avenues for improving patient outcomes.

Keywords: Budding; Cancer; Head; Neck; Tumor.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* / pathology
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor