Dr. Weiss on Biomarkers in Head and Neck Cancer

Jared Weiss, MD, assistant professor, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, discusses biomarkers in head and neck cancer.

Currently, one of the only available biomarkers for head and neck cancer is HPV. If the cancer is driven by HPV, it has more curative potential. But, this is not the optimal indicator for choosing treatment for patients with head and neck cancer, according to Weiss.

In regard to immunotherapy efficacy, Weiss says HPV isn’t a good biomarker. PD-L1 biomarkers are also problematic for immunotherapy, but some studies on interferon gamma signatures appear promising.