The purpose of this study is to identify and confirm new blood and tissue markers for prognosis and tumor hypoxia. Tumor hypoxia, or the condition of low oxygen in the tumor, has been shown to increase the risk of tumor spread and enhance tumor resistance to the standard treatment of radiation and chemotherapy in head and neck and lung cancers. We have recently identified several proteins or markers in the blood and in tumors (including osteopontin, lysyl oxidase, macrophage inhibiting factor and proteomic technology) in the laboratory that may be able to identify tumors with low oxygen levels or more aggressive behaving tumors.
To validate the prognostic significance of OPN in H&N and lung cancer patients and to monitor its level during active therapy and follow up for cancer surveillance. To identify a gene and protein signature for hypoxia in H&N and lung cancer patients.
Histologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck sites or non-small cell lung cancer, or relatives of patients with histologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Able to sign a Stanford IRB approved consent form
Exclusion criteria:
Refuse or unable to sign an IRB approved consent form. Refuse to be contacted in the future for follow up.
