Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Management of Head and Neck Malignancies

Michael T. Werner, Ryan M. Carey, W. Greer Albergotti, John N. Lukens, Robert M. Brody

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

38 Scopus citations

Abstract

The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the management of head and neck cancer must be addressed. Immediate measures to reduce transmission rates and protect patients and providers take priority and necessitate some delays in care, particularly for patients with mild symptoms or less aggressive cancers. However, strict guidelines have yet to be developed, and many unintentional delays in care are to be expected based on the magnitude of the looming public health crisis. The medical complexity of head and neck cancer management may lead to prolonged delays that worsen treatment outcomes. Therefore, those caring for patients with head and neck cancer must take action to reduce these negative impacts as the country rallies to overcome the challenges posed by this pandemic.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)816-817
Number of pages2
JournalOtolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery (United States)
Volume162
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 1 2020
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • COVID-19
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • head and neck cancer

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Otorhinolaryngology

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