Summary
KEYNOTE-048 was a phase 3 randomised controlled trial evaluating pembrolizumab as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy against the standard cetuximab-chemotherapy regimen for recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. As suggested by the trial design and journal prominence, the study appears to have demonstrated clinically meaningful efficacy differences between immunotherapy and targeted chemotherapy approaches in this patient population. This work contributes to understanding first-line treatment options in advanced head and neck cancer.
UK applicability
The findings are directly applicable to UK oncology practice, as pembrolizumab and treatment algorithms for recurrent/metastatic head and neck cancer are relevant to NHS cancer services. Results would inform standard-of-care recommendations within UK clinical guidelines for head and neck malignancies.
Key measures
Overall survival, progression-free survival, objective response rate, duration of response, safety and adverse events
Outcomes reported
The study compared efficacy and safety of pembrolizumab monotherapy or combined with chemotherapy versus cetuximab with chemotherapy in patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Primary outcomes likely included overall survival, progression-free survival, and objective response rates.
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