Modulation of Th1 and Th2 Cytokine Profiles and Their Association with Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

OBJECTIVE: Plasma cytokine concentrations from patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) were measured to determine whether the potential modulation of host Th1 vs Th2 immune responses are associated with advanced clinical disease.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: The concentrations of IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-12 were measured in the plasma of 58 patients with histologically proven HNSCC. These data were examined with respect to the histologic size (T-stage) of the primary tumor, and presence of nodal metastasis.

RESULTS: The concentrations of IL-12 were greater from patients without nodal metastasis, and with T₁/T₂-stage tumors. IL-10 levels were greater from patients with nodal metastasis, and with T₃/T₄-stage tumors. The concentrations of IL-6 were greater from patients with T₃/T₄-stage tumors.

CONCLUSIONS: Using parameters of primary tumor size and presence of nodal metastasis, patients with advanced HNSCC have significantly less plasma IL-12 levels, and greater plasma IL-10 and IL-6 levels.

SIGNIFICANCE: Patients with advanced HNSCC have a potentially diminished Th1 immune response, and a stronger potential Th2 immune response when compared to that of patients with less advanced disease. EBM rating: D-5.