PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic therapy: No prior immunotherapy for head and neck cancer No concurrent colony stimulating factors during first course of therapy Chemotherapy: No prior chemotherapy for recurrent or metastatic disease At least 3 months since prior chemotherapy as initial treatment Endocrine therapy: No prior hormonal therapy for head and neck cancer Radiotherapy: See Disease Characteristics At least 3 months since prior radiotherapy as initial treatment Surgery: See Disease Characteristics Prior surgery allowed Other: No other concurrent investigational or commercial agents or therapies