Guest Editors
Assist. Prof. Domen Vozel
Email: domen.vozel@kclj.si
Affiliation: Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Cervicofacial Surgery, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, SI-1000, Slovenia
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Research Interests: head and neck cancers, skull-base pathology, rhinology, autologous regenerative treatment modalities, disease related quality of life
Prof. Primož Strojan
Email: pstrojan@onko-i.si
Affiliation: Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, SI-1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Research Interests: head and neck cancers, melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, and the organizational aspects of radiotherapy
Summary
This special issue offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the most recent advancements and emerging treatment strategies in the field of head and neck cancer. It features detailed discussions on innovative treatment modalities that improve tumor treatment precision while minimizing functional and cosmetic impacts on patients. Additionally, the issue highlights progress in targeted therapies, which aim to specifically attack cancer cells based on their genetic and molecular profiles, resulting in more effective and less toxic treatments. Immunotherapy, an exciting area of research, is also extensively covered, showcasing how harnessing the body's immune system can lead to durable responses and potential cures for advanced cancers. Advances in radiation therapy, including more precise delivery methods such as proton therapy, are examined for their role in reducing side effects and improving outcomes. Furthermore, the issue emphasizes personalized medicine approaches, where treatments are tailored to individual patient characteristics, genetic makeup, and tumor biology. This multidisciplinary effort involves collaborations among surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and researchers, fostering innovation. The issue also discusses ongoing and future clinical trials that hold promise for redefining standard care protocols. Overall, this compilation aims to provide a thorough understanding of current challenges, recent breakthroughs, and future directions, ultimately shaping a more effective and patient-centered approach to managing head and neck cancers.
Keywords
head and neck cancer, emerging treatments, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, personalized medicine, clinical trials, multidisciplinary approach, cancer management.