Studies have indicated that HPV+ SCC responds better to existing Tx and (therefore) has less chance of recurrence. Some doctors use this to put off a ND until post Tx IF the Tx didn't work. I doubt that would have made a difference in your H's recommendation due to his nodal involvement and it's spread.

There are talks of studies with HPV+ patients to lower the radiation dose to ultimately arrive at the lowest dose that kills the cancer therefore reducing the side effects. None have started as of yet though so most, if not all, doctors still go with the 70 to 72 Gys spread over 7 weeks and in nodal involvement, chemo is almost always added.

If he's already been tested let us know when the results come back.

David

Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.