Study of Somatic EGFR Mutations in Squamous Cell Carcinomas of Head and Neck

Background and Aim:Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) originate from the epithelial lining of the upper aerodigestive tract. It accounts for over 90 % of the malignancies found in the head and neck region. One of the vital receptor that controls key signaling pathways for cell proliferation and survival is epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The present study aimed to study the somatic EGFR mutations in squamous cell carcinomas of head and neck.

Materials and methods

A Cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out on all cases of biopsy proven squamous cell carcinomas of head and neck presenting to a tertiary care hospital over a period of two years (July 2024- July 2026). Mutational analysis was done on 30 samples. The tissue samples were stored in saline at −40°C until analysis. Clinical data, including age, sex, tobacco/smoking history, duration of symptoms, and tumor site, were recorded. Histopathological evaluation was done which included TNM staging (AJCC 7th edition), tumor grading (Broders' criteria), lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, and extranodal extension.