Head and neck cancer surveillance: A guide past the five-year mark.

Abstract

Background: A head and neck cancer patient has completed treatment and five-year surveillance with their oncologists and surgeons and has been discharged back into your care. What is next and what do you not want to miss in this patient?

Objective: This article aims to provide the general practitioner with a practical guide and an up-to-date evidence-based review on how to manage the head and neck cancer survivor.

Discussion: Attentive surveillance encompassing risk stratification and guidance, early detection of recurrence and second malignancies, effective management of chronic symptoms and the provision of psychosocial support are fundamental in providing a holistic and comprehensive care plan for the head and neck cancer survivor.