Immunological Phenotypes of Premalignant Oral Lesions and the Immune Shifts with the Development of Head and Neck Cancer

Compared to other cancer types, squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (HNSCC) have been understudied.Studies in other cancer types have demonstrated immunological changes that occur with the development of cancer.However, few studies have looked at the immune changes that occur in premalignant lesions.HNSCC is often preceded by the appearance of premalignant oral lesions.However, information about the immune shifts that occur as a result of the premalignant oral lesions and following progression to HNSCC is sparse.This review aims to pull together studies with patients and animal models to summarize the multiplicities of immune activities that are associated with premalignant oral lesions and HSNCC.In general, the immune phenotype in premalignant oral lesions and regional lymph nodes is inflammatory and activated.However, development of HNSCC results in a shift to an immune inhibitory environment.