Future oncology | 2019
Comparison of second-line treatments of recurrent and/or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
Abstract
AIM\nThe literature lacks direct evidence comparing the different regimens evaluated in the second-line treatment of recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (R/M SCCHN).\n\n\nMETHODS\nWe conducted a network meta-analysis (NMA) of the randomized controlled Phase III trials reporting on the second-line drug treatment options in R/M SCCHN.\n\n\nRESULTS\nThe eligible trials included 11 regimens among which six targeted therapies, two immune checkpoint inhibitors and three chemotherapy regimens. Only nivolumab has shown statistically significant superiority over methotrexate in terms of overall survival (HR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.43-0.96) and objective response rate (OR: 2.51; 95% CI: 1.07-5.86).\n\n\nCONCLUSION\nBased on the efficacy and safety outcomes of this network meta-analysis, nivolumab seems the most favorable regimen inthe management of R/M SCCHN.