No statistically significant correlation was found between other biomarkers (CD4/CD8 ratio, Treg frequency, serum albumin, NLR, NER) and tumor response.<h4>Conclusions</h4>These findings underscore the important role of EGFR expression in predicting the efficacy of NIR-PIT in the management of head and neck cancer, and highlight the significance of incorporating EGFR assessment in patient selection and optimized treatment strategies. The gene discussed is EGFR; the disease is head and neck cancer.