The Role of Inflammation-Associated Factors in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), which originates in the head or neck tissues, is characterized by high rates of recurrence and metastasis. Inflammation is important in HNSCC prognosis. Inflammatory cells and their secreted factors contribute to the various stages of HNSCC development through multiple mechanisms. In this review, the mechanisms through which inflammatory factors, signaling pathways, and cells contribute to the initiation and progression of HNSCC have been discussed in detail. Furthermore, the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of targeting inflammation in HNSCC has been discussed to gain new insights into improving patient prognosis.

Keywords:

• inflammation
• head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
• HNSCC
• mediators
• progression
• therapy

Disclosure

The authors have no relevant financial or non financial interests to disclose for this work.

Additional information

Funding

The present study was supported in part by Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation (2021A1515010970); Shenzhen Innovation of Science and Technology Commission (No. JCYJ20210324132407019, LGKCYLWS2022002, LGKCYLWS2021000027, and LGKCYLWS2020099); and Shenzhen Key Medical Discipline Construction Fund (No. SZXK039).