This study compares two short pre-surgery treatments for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell cancer to see which one keeps the cancer from coming back longer. Eligible patients (18-70 years, newly diagnosed, operable) will be randomly assigned to receive either toripalimab (immunotherapy) alone or toripalimab plus two cycles of chemotherapy (docetaxel and cisplatin). After the two cycles, all patients will have standard surgery followed by radiation (or chemo-radiation). We will track tumor response, side effects, and quality of life. Possible benefits: tumor shrinkage and lower chance of recurrence; possible risks: low blood counts, rash, tiredness, or other drug-related side effects. Taking part is voluntary and you can leave the study at any time.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
154
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy: docetaxel 75 mg/m² IV Day 1 + cisplatin 75 mg/m² IV Day 1, repeated every 21 days for 2 cycles, given together with toripalimab in the combination arm.
Humanised anti-PD-1 IgG4κ monoclonal antibody. 240 mg IV infusion Day 1 of each 21-day cycle for 2 neoadjuvant cycles, then 3 cycles concurrent with post-op radiotherapy/chemoradiotherapy, followed by 12 adjuvant cycles every 3 weeks.
2-year Event-Free Survival
Proportion of patients alive and free from locoregional recurrence, distant metastasis, second primary tumor, or death from any cause within 24 months after randomisation, assessed per modified RECIST 1.1.
Time frame: From randomisation to 24 months
2-year Event-Free Survival (EFS)
Proportion of patients alive and free from locoregional recurrence, distant metastasis, second primary tumor, or death from any cause within 24 months after randomisation, assessed per modified RECIST 1.1.
Time frame: From randomisation to 24 months
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.