| HPV+ head & neck cancer can be
detected by the NavDx test a median of 4 months earlier than imaging or physical exam6,8 |
69%-72%of patients’ first sign of recurrence was NavDx testing2,3 |
About HPV+ Head & Neck Cancer.
Most HPV+ head & neck cancers are oropharyngeal cancers (cancers of the throat, tonsils, or base of the tongue). HPV+ oropharyngeal cancer (HPV+ OPSCC) is now the most common HPV-associated cancer in the United States.
The good news is that HPV+ OPSCC generally responds well to treatment, and outcomes have improved significantly over the past two decades. But recurrence after treatment remains a real risk and catching it early matters.
Studies show that up to 25% of HPV+ head & neck cancer patients may experience recurrence after treatment. Most recurrences occur within the first two to three years, which is why regular surveillance is so important.
Earlier Detection.
Published studies consistently show that routine NavDx® testing can detect HPV+ head & neck cancer recurrence earlier than standard surveillance methods. In clinical studies, the NavDx test detected recurrence a median of 4 months earlier than imaging or physical exam.
That time matters. When recurrence is found earlier:
- More treatment options may be available
- Targeted approaches, such as surgically removing a small nodule or using limited directed radiation, may be possible in place of more aggressive systemic chemoradiation
- The chance for successful treatment is greatest
Fewer Inconclusive Results. Clearer Answers.
One of the most anxiety-producing experiences during post-treatment surveillance is an inconclusive result, when a scan or physical exam leaves your care team uncertain about what they are seeing. That uncertainty can mean more tests, more waiting, and sometimes an invasive procedure just to get clarity.
Because the NavDx test looks for a specific, measurable marker in your blood rather than interpreting images, inconclusive results are rare. In a study of 543 HPV+ head & neck cancer patients: 39
| 38.7% | Received at least one inconclusive result from imaging and/or physical exam during post-treatment surveillance |
| 3% | Received an inconclusive NavDx result |
The NavDx test was also able to accurately resolve 97.5% of the inconclusive findings from imaging and physical exam, giving those patients and their Providers clarity on their cancer status with a single blood draw. 39
Greater Assurance and Peace of Mind.
For many patients, the reassurance of a negative NavDx test result is just as valuable as catching recurrence early. Because NavDx testing is highly accurate, a negative result means a very strong likelihood that there was no detectable disease at the time of testing.
| ≥98%
of patients with consistently negative TTMV Scores had no cancer recurrence2 |
99%
of patients without recurrence received a negative result—very few false alarms40 |
98.5%
chance you are cancer-free when your NavDx result is negative2 |
A published study examining patient-reported outcomes found that negative NavDx test results significantly lowered patient-reported distress and anxiety.41 NavDx testing doesn’t just detect recurrence. When results are negative, it can actively improve your confidence and quality of life between surveillance visits.
How Often Will I Need Testing?
Expert consensus from specialists in HPV+ head & neck cancer supports regular NavDx testing after treatment beginning at 3 months.11 Your Provider will determine the schedule that is right for your specific situation, but the following reflects the testing interval allowed by Medicare:
| Years 1 and 2 | Years 3, 4, 5 | |
| HPV+ Oropharyngeal Cancer | 4 tests / year | 2 tests / year |
Coverage and Financial Assistance.
NavDx testing is covered by a growing number of commercial insurance companies, as well as Medicare for HPV+ head & neck cancer surveillance. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Learn More → [link to Insurance & Billing page]