Work

Successful management of near-infrared photoimmunotherapy-induced skin injury using pedicled flap transfer

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Near-infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) is a recently developed cancer treatment which employs the combination of an antibody-photoabsorbor conjugate and NIR light. Currently, NIR-PIT is approved only in Japan for the treatment of unresectable, locally recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, using the anti-epidermal growth factor receptor antibody cetuximab and the photoabsorber IR700. However, there is no consensus on the optimal timing and management of NIR-PIT-induced skin injuries from both functional and oncological perspectives. Here, we report the case of a 71-year-old male with locally advanced tongue squamous cell carcinoma who developed a large skin ulcer and necrosis around the anterior neck following NIR-PIT. To prevent local infection and promote wound healing, oral antibiotic treatment and debridement were performed at the outpatient clinic. After confirming the absence of tumor recurrence, the patient was successfully treated using a well-vascularized pedicled flap. This case highlights two key management considerations for NIR-PIT-induced skin injury: surgical indications and cancer treatment. Further studies are necessary to improve the management of severe skin complications following NIR-PIT.

Source: Auris Nasus Larynx

DOI: 10.1016/j.anl.2026.03.009

Authors: Mayu Shigeyama, Naoki Nishio, Akihisa Wada, Seiya Goto, Sayaka Yokoi, Michihiko Sone

Institution: Nagoya University

Language: English

Topic: Head and Neck Cancer Studies

Subfield: Otorhinolaryngology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,520