ESR Bridges: new developments in imaging and treatment of the unknown primary squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck—a multidisciplinary view.

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Title: ESR Bridges: new developments in imaging and treatment of the unknown primary squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck—a multidisciplinary view.
Authors: Becker, Minerva1 (AUTHOR) Minerva.Becker@hug.ch, van den Brekel, Michiel2 (AUTHOR), Maroldi, Roberto3 (AUTHOR)
Source: European Radiology. Mar2026, Vol. 36 Issue 3, p1797-1800. 4p.
Subjects: Cancer of unknown primary origin, Diagnostic imaging, Biopsy, Health care teams, Head & neck cancer, Human papillomavirus, Diagnosis, Epstein-Barr virus
Abstract: This article focuses on the clinical challenges and diagnostic strategies for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma of unknown primary (HNSCCUP), a condition characterized by metastatic lymph nodes without an identifiable primary tumor despite comprehensive evaluation. It emphasizes the importance of precise tumor localization through a combination of clinical examination, imaging modalities—including ultrasound (US), multiparametric MRI, contrast-enhanced CT, and various PET techniques—and targeted biopsies, supported by molecular testing for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). The article highlights the role of multidisciplinary teams in integrating clinical, radiological, histological, and molecular data to guide individualized treatment, while noting ongoing uncertainties in optimal management and the need for further research on advanced imaging, biopsy methods, and treatment de-escalation. Recommendations aim to improve detection rates, tailor therapy, and reduce morbidity in HNSCCUP patients. [Extracted from the article]
Copyright of European Radiology is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
Database: Engineering Source
Description
Abstract:This article focuses on the clinical challenges and diagnostic strategies for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma of unknown primary (HNSCCUP), a condition characterized by metastatic lymph nodes without an identifiable primary tumor despite comprehensive evaluation. It emphasizes the importance of precise tumor localization through a combination of clinical examination, imaging modalities—including ultrasound (US), multiparametric MRI, contrast-enhanced CT, and various PET techniques—and targeted biopsies, supported by molecular testing for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). The article highlights the role of multidisciplinary teams in integrating clinical, radiological, histological, and molecular data to guide individualized treatment, while noting ongoing uncertainties in optimal management and the need for further research on advanced imaging, biopsy methods, and treatment de-escalation. Recommendations aim to improve detection rates, tailor therapy, and reduce morbidity in HNSCCUP patients. [Extracted from the article]
ISSN:09387994
DOI:10.1007/s00330-025-11977-4