Survival, efficacy and organ preservation outcomes of induction chemotherapy in sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Locally advanced sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SNSCC) is typically treated with surgery, adjuvant radiation, and possibly chemotherapy, but the role of induction chemotherapy (ICT) has not been extensively studied. The main objective was to assess the survival, efficacy, and organ preservation outcomes of ICT. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) search domain, PubMed, Embase, and Medline were queried for articles from inception through December 2024. A random-effects meta-analysis of pooled response, survival and orbital preservation rates were assessed. A total of 9 studies with 338 ICT patients were included. The pooled partial response (PR) rate was 57%. Complete response rates ranged from 2% to 17%, and stable response rates from 15% to 42%. Two-year overall survival was 78% (95% CI: 0.60–0.90) and disease-free survival was 93% (95% CI: 0.82–0.97). Orbital preservation rates were 83% (95% CI: 0.75–0.90). Pooled evidence suggests that ICT may be an effective modality in producing PR for locally advanced SNSCC. However, high-quality trials with standardized regimens are needed to confirm its role. This review provides the most updated statistical outcomes of ICT treatment in treating SNSCC which can help make decisions.