HN-QUEST: A Study of Head and Neck Imaging Biomarkers

The purpose of this study is to develop and investigate novel and established MR (magnetic resonance) imaging sequences as predictive and prognostic radiotherapy biomarkers. Radiotherapy is a fundamental treatment modality for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) with a majority of patients receiving radiation as part of their care pathway. Although treatment is effective, there remains a risk of failure particularly in those presenting with locally advanced disease. In addition, significant proportion of patients receiving radiotherapy will suffer long-term side effects related to their treatment. The addition of concurrent chemotherapy improves the efficacy of radiotherapy, but at the cost of increased treatment related toxicity. The treatment related toxicity and risk of treatment failure means there is a compelling clinical need to personalize therapy based on a patient's early response to radiotherapy.

Inclusion criteria

for Cancer Patients:

• Age >/= 18 years
• Histologically proven Head and Neck Squamous Cell carcinoma
• Primary or nodal disease > 3cm for biomarker imaging
• Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Performance Status 0-2
• Planned for curative surgery or (chemo)radiotherapy
• Willingness to undergo repeat MRI
• Able to receive and understand verbal and written information regarding study and able to give written informed consent
• Adequate renal function: Calculated creatinine clearance >/= 30ml/min
• Be able to lie comfortably on back for 1 hour

Exclusion criteria

for Cancer Patients:

• As judged by investigator evidence of systemic disease that makes unsuitable for study
• Contra-indication for serial MRI scans
• Previous solid tumor treated within last 5 years
• Pregnancy
• History of significant obstructive airway disease
• History of gadolinium contrast allergy

Inclusion criteria

for Healthy Volunteers

• Age >/= 18 years
• Able to receive and understand verbal and written information regarding study and able to give written informed consent
• Willingness to undergo repeat MRI

Exclusion criteria

for Healthy Volunteers

• Unwillingness to sign informed consent
• Contra-indication for MRI
• Underlying significant respiratory disease