Progression after the next line of therapy following pembrolizumab (P) or P plus chemotherapy (P+C) vs EXTREME (E) as first-line (1L) therapy for recurrent/metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Abstract No : 6505

Abstract Type : Oral Abstract Session

Indication : HNSCC

Intervention : Pembrolizumab

Company : Merck & Co.

Technology : Monoclonal antibody

Results:

Of 882 (301 [P]; 281 [P+C]; 300 [E]) treated patients,422 (P: 148 [49.2%]; P+C: 115 [40.9%]; E: 159 [53.0%]) received subsequent anticancer therapy after 1L P, most commonly C (P: 135 [44.9%]; P+C: 88 [31.3%]; E: 102 [34.0%]); EGFR inhibitor (P: 59 [19.6%]; P+C: 37 [13.2%]; E: 19 [6.3%]); and immune checkpoint inhibitor (P: 6 [2.0%]; P+C: 12 [4.3%]; E: 50 [16.7%])

Conclusion:

In patients with R/M HNSCC, longer median PFS2 was observed in the CPS >20 and CPS >1 populations for P vs E, and in the CPS >20, CPS >1, and total populations for P+C vs E. These data further support use of 1L P or P+C in patients with R/M HNSCC.

Commentary:

The result further support the use of pembrolizumab as monotherapy and in combination with chemotherapy as first line treatment for recurrent/metastatic head and neck cancer.

Refer to Head And Neck Cancer Market report for detailed Insights.