Surgical margin status and role of adjuvant therapy in human papillomavirus‐positive oropharyngeal cancer

Background We analyzed the difference in treatment results according to safety margin range and studied the role of adjuvant therapy in patients with human papillomavirus‐positive (HPV+) oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Materials and methods A total of 279 patients with HPV+ OPSCC were included in this study. Results Surgical margin and T classification were significant prognostic factors related to death. The difference in locoregional recurrence was analyzed by dividing the safety margin into groups of 5 mm. There was no significant difference in local‐regional recurrence for T1–T2 lesions between the three groups. Adjuvant therapy can significantly reduce disease recurrence in HPV+ OPSCC patients with risk factors. Conclusions In T1–T2 lesions without other risk factors, even with a safety margin ≥1 mm, adjuvant therapy can potentially be omitted. Adjuvant therapy can significantly reduce disease recurrence in HPV+ OPSCC patients with risk factors.