4th International Symposium on Tumor-Host Interaction in Head and Neck Cancer in conjunction with the 1st AI in Head and Neck Oncology – Satellite Symposium

Head and neck tumors are among the most common types of cancer worldwide and in Germany. Due to their location, their often occult growth over many years and their aggressive tumor biology, the majority of head and neck tumors are only diagnosed at an advanced stage, with a significantly reduced chance of recovery. Thanks to major advances in oncology, particularly in the field of immunomodulation, highly relevant new treatment options are available or will be available shortly. These developments are also of great importance in the treatment of advanced head and neck tumors and are bringing the field of immuno-oncology increasingly into focus. A better understanding of the cellular and molecular interaction between tumor tissue and host immunity forms the basis for identifying new therapeutic intervention options that will significantly influence oncological treatment approaches in the future. Another innovative aspect is the investigation of biomarkers detectable in the blood and the use of ‘liquid biopsy’ as a minimally invasive diagnostic tool and a means of real-time immunological monitoring, which also makes the creation of personalized and thus more efficient therapy concepts more tangible. A lack of standardization has so far limited its use in routine clinical practice, which is why scientific exchange is all the more necessary. Only a few conferences focus on experimental research in the field of ENT oncology – and this is precisely why we want to bring together scientists and physicians working experimentally and translationally in this field to discuss the latest results and achievements. Our aim is to stimulate and network activities in head and neck tumor research in order to exchange a high standard of specialist knowledge with leading researchers in this field, discuss innovative therapy strategies and initiate international studies and research activities. For the first time, the topic of artificial intelligence will be a focus of the event. In this spirit, our symposium also aims to lay the foundation for an interactive, networked series of regular events in which top scientists present the latest research findings.