A qualitative exploration of the pathway to diagnosis and treatment of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck with perineural spread

Abstract

Abstract Background Perineural spread (PNS) is associated with a poor prognosis in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (cSCCHN). Hence, investigating facilitators and barriers of early diagnosis and treatment of PNS in cSCCHN may improve outcomes. Methods Patients were recruited from an institutional database. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted according to the Model of Pathways to Treatment. Thematic analysis was based on the four main intervals in the framework using a data‐driven analytical method. Results Seventeen participants were interviewed. Facilitators included patients' past experiences, symptom progression, trust in healthcare professionals (HCPs), and capacity to leverage relationships. Barriers included difficult diagnoses, limited access to cancer services, lack of care coordination, and lack of awareness of PNS among primary health care providers. Conclusion These findings emphasise the complexity early diagnosis and treatment of PNS. Interventions like clinical practice guidelines, education for HCPs, and telehealth could facilitate timely detection and management.

Keywords

• cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
• head and neck
• models of pathways to treatment
• neoplasm
• Perineural spread