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Role of Taxoids in Head and Neck Cancer

University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium

Correspondence: J.B. Vermorken, M.D., Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Antwerp, Wilrijkstraat 10, B-2650 Edegem, Belgium; Telephone: 32-3-821-3375; Fax: 32-3-825-0564; e-mail: J.B.Vermorken{at}uza.uia.ac.be 

Docetaxel and paclitaxel represent a new class of cytotoxic agents having both a specific chemical structure and mechanism of action. They act to promote tubulin polymerization and the formation of stable microtubules. The microtubules produced in the presence of taxoids are resistant to disassembly by physiologic stimuli, and cells exposed to these agents exhibit an accumulation of disorganized microtubule arrays. This affects the normal mitotic process and eventually results in cell death.

Both drugs are active as single agents in patients with head and neck cancer with response rates ranging from 20% to 40%. They may be combined with other cytotoxic agents, radiotherapy, or both. A review is given of the presently available data.

Key Words. Docetaxel • Paclitaxel • Head and neck cancer • Radiotherapy • Combination chemotherapy

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