Abstract
The oropharynx is a complex anatomic structure which serves multiple functions, primarily in pronunciation, swallowing and immunity. Treatment strategies involving the oropharynx should therefore consider quality of life and organ function after treatment.
In recent years, the incidence of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer （OPC） has continued to increase globally. The 2017 TNM revision classifies OPC into two types: HPV-related OPC （p16-positive） and non-HPV-related OPC （p16-negative）. HPV-related OPC has a better prognosis than non-HPV-related OPC.
Chemoradiotherapy, a non-surgical treatment for OPC, requires management of acute and chronic side effects in order to prevent treatment interruption. Clinical trials aimed at decreasing treatment intensity are now underway.
