Advances in Recurrent/Metastatic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: Immunotherapy and Biomarkers

Target Audience
This activity was developed for medical oncologists, head and neck surgeons, radiation oncologists, physician associates, nurse practitioners, nurses and pharmacists involved in the care of patients diagnosed with metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Program Overview
Greater understanding of the tumor microenvironment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) has led to the introduction of immunotherapy into the NPC treatment landscape. Incorporating immunotherapy has changed the current standard of care in the treatment of recurrent and metastatic NPC. Robert Ferris, MD, explores clinical trial data leading to approval of PD-1 inhibitors both as monotherapy and in combination with chemotherapy. He also delves into the significance of biomarkers that may influence prognosis and management of patients with NPC, as well as managing toxicity related to PD-1 inhibitors.

Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, participants should be better able to:

Design evidence-based treatment plans for patients with NPC who are appropriate candidates for immunotherapy.
Describe the safety and efficacy of immunotherapy for patients with NPC.
Employ appropriate biomarker testing to guide prognosis and management of patients with NPC.
Develop appropriate collaborative strategies among the multidisciplinary and interprofessional care team to prevent, identify, and mitigate toxicities related to immunotherapy for the treatment of patients with NPC.