Biomarkers aid cost-benefit analysis of head and neck cancer immunotherapy
The cost-effectiveness of the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab for patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma may depend on biomarker results, according to a new study.
A new study published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery explores the cost-effectiveness of adding perioperative pembrolizumab to standard treatment for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Pembrolizumab is an immunotherapy drug that can improve survival for certain patients. However, adding the drug is expensive and may be difficult for patients to complete due to potential side effects.
Researchers examined the KEYNOTE-689 trial cohort and found that patients with a higher biomarker score (indicating a better response to pembrolizumab) saw more significant benefits from the treatment. The cost-effectiveness ratio was $134,700 per quality-adjusted life year for patients with a higher biomarker score, compared to $2.18 million per quality-adjusted life year for patients with a lower biomarker score.
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