Nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Abstract

Summary The incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) shows geographically differences between certain parts of Asia and the rest of the world. While NPC is an orphan disease in Western Europe/United States of America, it is endemic to southern China, southeast Asia and northern Africa. NPC is a radio- and chemotherapy sensitive malignancy. Although it is essential to follow the evidence-based treatment recommendations outlined in the international guidelines, it has to be emphasized that the field is rapidly involving and relevant data gaps such as the optimal treatment strategy for stage II disease, non-Epstein Barr Virus associated NPC or the role of immunotherapy in low incidence areas exist. These topics will be addressed in this article. Most importantly, interdisciplinary management of NPC patients is key for the optimal management at all disease stages.