Thank you in advance for the unwavering support this forum provides. I am a 50 year old male that was recently diagnosed with HPV P16+ SCC with a 2.5 x 1.9 x 3.4cm primary tumor of the right palate/ tonsil area and two lymph nodes measuring less than 1.5 cm. (T2N2C0)

Just had my first consultation with my oncologist, Dr Weiss, at UNC Chapel Hill. Cisplatin is off the table due to the tinnitus in my right ear. The other courses of treatment are as follow:

1) Cetuximab, three infusions (Once every two weeks) with six weeks of radiation, provided I am not allergic to it. (Standard treatment)
or
2)Pembrolizumab (Keytruda), six infusions (once every three weeks) and seven weeks of radiation. (Clinical Trial)

Leaning towards the Keytruda due to least risk of overall long term health problems. Keytruda is to Opdivo as Pepsi is to Coke. I'd rather hit a nail with a hammer not with a screwdriver.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.