Risk factors for survival after head and neck cancer: a cohort study in the south of Espirito Santo state

Introduction: Head and check squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) affects the Brazilian population with a high incidence and usually has a poor prognosis. Objective: To evaluate the risk factors for survival of patients diagnosed with HNSCC and investigate the influence of epidemiological and clinical factors on the prognostic of HNSCC in southeastern Brazil. Materials and Methods: Clinical records of 211 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas diagnosed and treated between 2010 and 2018 at a reference hospital for oncology, were selected. Clinical and pathological characteristics at diagnosis and for 5 years follow up were collected. The Kaplan-Meier Curve with the Log-Rank test assessed survival, and forward stepwise multivariate logistic regression model was performed to determine the factors affecting HNSCC survival. Results: The 5-year overall survival was 30.0%. Laryngeal cancer was the most prevalent (34.1%), followed by oropharynx (33.6%) and oral cavity (24.2%). About 64% of patients had locally advanced tumors (T3 and T4) and 75.4% of the patients were diagnosed as being in the advanced clinical stages (III and IV). In the multivariate analysis, the locally advanced tumors (OR=2.748; 95%CI:1.310- 5.765), palliative chemotherapy (OR=15.757; 95%CI:5.868-42.309) and metastasis during oncological follow-up (OR=11.602; 95%CI:1.380-97.507) were associated with a poor prognosis. Conclusion: The survival rate was considered low when compared with the literature. Locally advanced tumors, palliative chemotherapy, and the appearance of metastases during follow-up were considered the most important risk factors associated with a low HNSCC survival.

Introdução: O carcinoma de células escamosas (CCE) de cabeça e pescoço possui alta incidência na população brasileira e normalmente está associado a um prognóstico desfavorável. Objetivo: Avaliar os fatores de risco para sobrevida de pacientes diagnosticados com CCE de cabeça e pescoço e investigar a influência de fatores clínicoepidemiológicos no prognóstico do CCE. Materiais e Métodos: Foram selecionados prontuários de 211 pacientes com CCE de cabeça e pescoço diagnosticados e tratados entre 2010 e 2018 em um hospital de referência em oncologia. Foram coletadas as características clínico-patológicas no momento do diagnóstico e nos 5 anos de acompanhamento. A curva de Kaplan-Meier com o teste Log-Rank avaliou a sobrevivência e o modelo de regressão logística multivariada progressiva foram realizados para determinar os fatores que afetaram a sobrevivência do CCE. Resultados: A sobrevida global em 5 anos foi de 30,0%. O câncer de laringe foi o mais prevalente (34,1%), seguido de orofaringe (33,6%) e cavidade oral (24,2%). 64% dos pacientes apresentavam tumores localmente avançados (T3 e T4) e 75,4% dos pacientes foram diagnosticados em estádios clínicos avançados (III e IV). Na análise multivariada, os tumores localmente avançados (RC = 2,748; IC 95%: 1,310-5,765), quimioterapia paliativa (RC = 15,757; IC 95%: 5,868-42,309) e metástases durante o acompanhamento oncológico (RC = 11,602; IC 95%: 1,380-97,507) foram associados a um pior prognóstico. Conclusão: A taxa de sobrevida foi considerada baixa. Tumores localmente avançados, quimioterapia paliativa e aparecimento de metástases durante o seguimento foram considerados os fatores de risco mais importantes associados a uma baixa sobrevida.

Supervivencia de cirugía de rescate en carcinoma escamoso de orofaringe / Survival outcomes of salvage surgery in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

La recurrencia de carcinoma de células escamosas orofaríngeo (CCEOF) se asocia a mal pronóstico, particularmente en recurrencias en etapa avanzada. La cirugía en el contexto de rescate es más complicada por el tratamiento oncológico del tumor primario, por lo tanto, tiene un mayor riesgo de complicaciones y estadía hospitalaria. Sin embargo, la cirugía de rescate es la mejor oportunidad del paciente como tratamiento curativo y para supervivencia a largo plazo. La población de pacientes que reciben tratamiento para CCEOF ha cambiado en la última década, se ha reconocido que la incidencia de virus papiloma humano (VPH) asociado a CCEOF ha generado el gran aumento de CCEOF y el cambio asociado en las características de la población de pacientes, ahora los pacientes son más jóvenes y tienen menos comorbilidades. Con el aumento exponencial en la incidencia de CCEOF, la necesidad de cirugía de rescate en CCEOF podría verse en aumento. En vista del aumento de la incidencia de casos con carcinoma escamoso de orofaringe y su importante relación con el VPH, esta revisión se enfoca en la supervivencia tras cirugía de rescate con intención curativa y evaluar si con los avances en su tratamiento ha mejorado su pronóstico.

Recurrence of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is associated with poor prognosis, particularly in advanced stage recurrences. Salvage surgery is complicated by previous oncological treatment of the primary tumor, therefore, it has a higher risk of complications and hospital stay. However, salvage surgery is the patient's best opportunity as a curative treatment and for long-term survival. The population of patients receiving treatment for OPSCC has changed in the last decade, it has been recognized that the incidence of human papilloma virus (HPV) associated OPSCC has generated an increase of OPSCC and changes in the epidemiology of the patient population, with younger patients and with less comorbidities. With the exponential increase in the incidence of OPSCC, the need for salvage surgery in OPSCC could increase in the future. In view of the increase in the incidence of cases with squamous oropharyngeal carcinoma and its relationship with HPV, this review focuses on survival after salvage surgery with curative intent and assessing whether the progress in its treatment has improved its prognosis.

Eletrólitos séricos e prognóstico em doentes submetidos a gastrostomia endoscópica / Serum electrolytes and outcome in patients undergoing endoscopic gastrostomy

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a gold standard for long term enteral feeding. Neurologic dysphagia and head/neck cancer are the most common indications for PEG as they can lead to protein-energy malnutrition and serum electrolyte abnormalities, with potential negative impact on metabolic balance. Refeeding syndrome may also be related with severe electrolyte changes in PEG-fed patients and contribute to poor prognosis. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the changes in serum concentrations of the main electrolytes and its possible association with the outcome. METHODS: Retrospective study of patients followed in our Artificial Nutrition Clinic, submitted to PEG from 2010 to 2016, having head/neck cancer or neurologic dysphagia, who died under PEG feeding. Serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chlorine, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus) were evaluated immediately before the gastrostomy procedure. Survival after PEG until death was recorded in months. RESULTS: We evaluated 101 patients, 59 with electrolyte alterations at the moment of the gastrostomy. Sodium was altered in 32 (31.7%), magnesium in 21 (20.8%), chlorine in 21 (20.8%), potassium in 14 (13.8%), calcium in 11 (10.9 %) and phosphorus in 11 (10.9%). The survival of patients with low sodium (<135 mmol/L) was significantly lower when compared to patients with normal/high values, 2.76 months vs 7.80 months, respectively (P=0.007). CONCLUSION: Changes in serum electrolytes of patients undergoing PEG were very common. More than half showed at least one abnormality, at the time of the procedure. The most frequent was hyponatremia, which was associated with significantly shorter survival, probably reflecting severe systemic metabolic distress.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A gastrostomia endoscópica percutânea (PEG) é a via de eleição preferencial para a nutrição entérica de longa duração. A disfagia neurológica e as neoplasias cervico-faciais constituem as principais indicações para PEG por poderem conduzir a desnutrição energético-proteica e alterações hidroeletrolíticas, com potencial impacto negativo no equilíbrio metabólico. A síndrome de realimentação pode também estar associada a alterações hidroeletrolíticas graves em doentes alimentados por PEG e contribuir para um mau prognóstico. OBJETIVO: Avaliar as alterações das concentrações séricas dos principais eletrólitos e a eventual associação entre os valores séricos alterados e o prognóstico dos doentes gastrostomizados. Métodos - Estudo retrospetivo realizado em doentes seguidos na Consulta de Nutrição Artificial do Hospital Garcia de Orta, propostos e submetidos a PEG, de 2010 a 2016 e que faleceram sob nutrição por PEG. Consideraram-se os valores séricos dos iões em estudo avaliados imediatamente antes do procedimento endoscópico de gastrostomia, obtidos por consulta do processo clínico. A sobrevida, após a realização da PEG até à morte foi registrada em meses. RESULTADOS: Avaliaram-se 101 doentes. A sobrevida média pós-gastrostomia foi 6,55 meses. Destes, 59 apresentaram alterações de alguns iões no momento da realização da PEG. O sódio estava alterado em 31 (30,6%), magnésio em 20 (19,8%), cloro em 19 (18,8%), potássio em 14 (13,8%), cálcio em 10 (9,9%) e o fósforo em 9 (8,9%). Quando comparada a sobrevida dos doentes com valores de sódio baixo (<135 mmol/L) com a dos doentes com valores normais/elevados, esta foi 2,76 meses vs 7,80 meses, respectivamente (P=0,007). CONCLUSÃO: As alterações dos eletrólitos séricos nos doentes submetidos a PEG foram muito frequentes, com mais de metade dos doentes a apresentarem pelo menos uma alteração aquando da realização do procedimento. A alteração mais frequente foi a hiponatrémia, associando-se a pior prognóstico com sobrevida significativamente mais curta, refletindo provavelmente um grave compromisso metabólico sistêmico.

Cáncer de cabeza y cuello en Uruguay. Análisis de sobrevida en dos centros de referencia / Head and neck cancer in Uruguay. Survival analysis in two reference centers / Câncer de cabeça e pescoço no Uruguai. Análise de sobrevivência em dois centros de referência

Introducción: el carcinoma escamoso de cabeza y cuello (HNSCC) es el cáncer de mayor prevalencia en la otorrinolaringología, ocupando en el Uruguay el quinto lugar en incidencia y el sexto lugar en mortalidad en hombres. El propósito de este estudio fue analizar la sobrevida global de pacientes con cáncer de cabeza y cuello en dos centros de referencia de Montevideo. Método: se analizó de forma retrospectiva la sobrevida global de 436 pacientes diagnosticados con HNSCC entre los años 2005 y 2015. Se analizó la sobrevida por método de Kaplan-Meier en relación con el estadio tumoral, topografía, estatus de tabaquismo y alcoholismo de los pacientes. Para el estudio de la interacción de las variables con posible importancia en el pronóstico se utilizó el modelo de regresión de Cox. Resultados: la mediana de sobrevida global de los pacientes con cáncer de cabeza y cuello en nuestra serie es de 35,8 meses (23,5-48,1, IC 95%), para el cáncer de laringe fue superior a la del resto de los pacientes con cáncer de otros sitios anatómicos, 77,3 (49,3-105,2, IC 95%) versus 26,2 meses (20,7-48,1, IC 95%, p < 0,001). No hubo diferencia entre la sobrevida global de tabaquistas y no tabaquistas. El grupo de los no alcoholistas presentó una mejor sobrevida global que el grupo de los alcoholistas, 72,4 (39,1-105,7, IC 95%) versus 26,7 (19,9-33,6 IC 95%). El análisis multivariante identificó el estadio y el alcoholismo como factores pronósticos independientes en nuestra serie. Conclusiones: la mediana de sobrevida global de nuestra serie es similar a la reportada en la bibliografía internacional. Los pacientes con cáncer de laringe presentan mayor sobrevida que los pacientes con cáncer de otros sitios otorrinolaringológicos. De los factores de riesgo clásicos, en nuestra serie el consumo de alcohol impacta negativamente en sobrevida de los pacientes con cáncer de cabeza y cuello.

Introduction: head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) is the most prevalent cancer in otorhinolaryngology, being it the fifth cancer in terms of incidence in Uruguay and the sixth in male mortality. The study aims at analysing global survival in patients with head and neck cancer in two reference centers in Montevideo. Method: retrospective analysis of global survival of 436 patients diagnosed with HNSCC between 2005 and 2015. Survival was analysed with the Kaplan-Meier method with regard to the patients' stage of cancer, topography, smoking and alcohol consumption. The Cox regression method was used to study the interaction of variables with potential importance in the prognosis. Results: in our series median global survival of patients with head and neck cancer is 35.8 months (23.5-48.1, CI 95%), it as higher for larynx cancer than that of the rest of the patients with cancer in other anatomic sites, 77.3 (49.4-105.2, CI 95%) versus 26.2 months (20.7 - 48.1, CI 95%, p < 0,001). There was no difference between the global survival of smokers and non-smokers. Non-alcohol consumers presented a better global survival than the group of alcohol consumers, 72.4 (39.1-105.7, CI 95%) versus 26.7 (19.9-33.6 CI 95%). The multivariable analysis identified stage of cancer and alcohol consumption as independent prognostic factors in our series. Conclusions: median global survival in our series is similar to that reported in the international bibliography. Patients with larynx cancer evidence a longer survival than patients with cancer in other otorhinolaryngologic sites. As to classic risk factors, alcohol consumption has a negative impact on the survival of patients with head and neck cancer.

Introdução: o carcinoma epidermóide de cabeça e pescoço (HNSCC) é o câncer com maior prevalência em Otorrinolaringologia; no Uruguai é o quinto tumor em incidência e o sexto em mortalidade em homens. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a sobrevida global dos pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço em dois centros de referência de Montevidéu. Métodos: fez-se uma análise retrospectiva da sobrevida global de 436 pacientes diagnosticados com HNSCC no período 2005-2015. A sobrevida foi estudada pelo método de Kaplan-Meier em relação ao estádio tumoral, topografia, estatus de tabaquismo e alcoolismo dos pacientes. Para estudar a interação das variáveis com possível importância no prognóstico utilizou-se o modelo de regressão de Cox. Resultados: a mediana de sobrevida global dos pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço na nossa serie foi de 35,8 meses (23,5-48,1, IC 95%), sendo superior para o câncer de laringe ao do resto dos pacientes com câncer de outros sítios anatômicos, 77,3 (49,3-105,2, IC 95%) versus 26,2 meses (20,7-48,1, IC 95%, p < 0,001). Não se observou diferença entre a sobrevida global de fumantes e não fumantes. O grupo dos não alcoolistas apresentou uma melhor sobrevida global que o grupo dos alcoolistas, 72,4 (39,1-105,7, IC 95%) versus 26,7 (19,9-33,6 IC 95%). A análise multivariante identificou o estádio e o alcoolismo como fatores prognósticos independentes na nossa serie. Conclusões: a mediana de sobrevida global da nossa serie é similar à descrita na bibliografia internacional. Os pacientes com câncer de laringe apresentam maior sobrevida que os pacientes com câncer de outros sítios otorrinolaringológicos. Dos fatores de risco clássicos, na nossa serie o consumo de álcool impacta negativamente na sobrevida dos pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço.

Diagnostic relevance of metastatic renal cell carcinoma in the head and neck: An evaluation of 22 cases in 671 patients

ABSTRACT Purpose Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a malignant tumor that metastasizes early, and patients often present with metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis. The aim of our evaluation was to assess the diagnostic and differential diagnostic relevance of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with particular emphasis on head and neck manifestations in a large patient series. Patients and methods We retrospectively evaluated 671 consecutive patients with RCC who were treated in our urology practice between 2000 and 2013. Results Twenty-four months after diagnosis, 200/671 (30%) of RCC had metastasized. Distant metastases were found in 172 cases, with 22 metastases (3.3%) in the head and neck. Cervical and cranial metastases were located in the lymph nodes (n=13) and in the parotid and the thyroid gland, tongue, the forehead skin, skull, and paranasal sinuses (n=9). All head and neck metastases were treated by surgical excision, with 14 patients receiving adjuvant radiotherapy and 9 patients receiving chemotherapy or targeted therapy at some point during the course of the disease. Five patients (23%) survived. The mean time of survival from diagnosis of a head and neck metastasis was 38 months, the shortest period of observation being 12 months and the longest 83 months. Discussion and conclusion Our findings show that while RCC metastases are rarely found in the neck, their proportion among distantly metastasized RCC amounts to 13%. Therefore, the neck should be included in staging investigations for RCC with distant metastases, and surgical management of neck disease considered in case of resectable metastatic disease. Similarly, in patients presenting with a neck mass with no corresponding tumor of the head and neck, a primary tumor below the clavicle should be considered and the appropriate staging investigations initiated.

Carcinomas de cabeza y cuello, experiencia de un centro oncológico del estado de Durango, México / Head and neck carcinomas, experience of a cancer center in the state of Durango, Mexico

Antecedentes: los carcinomas de cabeza y cuello son relativamente frecuentes, presentan diversos tipos histológicos y características clínicas, mismas que se asocian con una variedad de riesgos de mortalidad. Objetivo: El propósito de este trabajo fue examinar en un periodo de cinco años carcinomas de cabeza y cuello tratados en el Centro Estatal de Cancerología. Material y métodos: Este estudio se realizó de manera retrospectiva, se revisaron factores de riesgo y tratamientos, se hicieron análisis univariados y multivariados para evaluar factores pronóstico y supervivencia. Resultados: Se obtuvieron un total de 32 expedientes que cumplían con las características del estudio, el periodo de seguimiento fue de 2 a 32 meses. La variante histológica predominante fue carcinoma epidermoide, el tratamiento primario más común fue cirugía. Conclusiones: La supervivencia en los carcinomas de cabeza y cuello disminuye en pacientes en etapas clínicas avanzadas, edad e historia de tabaquismo y/o alcoholismo, la mayoría de ellos muere por progresión de enfermedad y metástasis.

Introduction: carcinomas of the head and neck are relatively common.They include diff erent histological types and present a rangeof clinical characteristics, and are associated with diverse risks of mortality. Objective: To perform a casuistic review of cases of head andneck carcinomas over a period of fi ve years at a State Cancer Center.Material and method: A retrospective study was conducted, in whichrisk factors and treatments were analyzed. Univariate and multivariatestatistical analyses were performed for the purpose of evaluatingprognostic and survival factors. Results: A total of 32 fi les were foundto meet the criteria required by the study. Patient follow-up ranged from2 to 32 months. The predominant histological variant identifi ed wasthe squamous cell carcinoma, while the most common primary treatment was surgery. Conclusions: This study shows that survival fromhead and neck carcinomas decreases in patients who are in advancedclinical stages, particularly those of a certain age with a history ofsmoking and/or alcohol use, most of whom die from the progression and metastasis of the disease.

Is There Any Age Cutoff to Treat Elderly Patients with Head and Neck Cancer? Comparing with Septuagenarians and Octogenarians

With the increase in life expectancy, age is no longer considered as a limitation for treatment. Nevertheless, the treatment of elderly patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) remains controversial. Here, we aimed to review our experience with the treatment for elderly patients, while particularly focusing on the differences among older old patients (septuagenarians vs. octogenarians). We retrospectively reviewed the records of 260 elderly patients who were assigned to 3 groups according to age: 70 years old ≤ group 1 < 75 years old, 75 years old ≤ group 2 < 80 years old, and group 3 ≥ 80 years old. The patients were assessed for comorbidities using the Adult Comorbidity Evaluation (ACE)-27, and the American Society of Anesthesia (ASA) physical status was also compared. Group 1, 2, and 3, consisted of 97, 102, and 61 patients, respectively. No significant difference in demographic data was noted among the groups. However, group 3 showed more comorbidities than groups 1 and 2. With regard to the initial treatment for HNC, radiation therapy (RT) was more frequently performed in group 3 than in groups 1 and 2. Among 7 patients of non-compliant to treatment in group 3, 6 patients had have performed RT. In group 3, a total of 18 patients underwent surgery, including microvascular free flap reconstruction and no significant difference in complications was observed postoperatively compared with group 1 and 2. Moreover, no significant difference was noted in overall survival between the groups, regardless of the treatment modality chosen. In conclusion, octogenarians with HNC should be more carefully managed than septuagenarians with HNC. Surgical treatment can be considered in octogenarians with HNC, if it can be tolerated.

Is There Any Age Cutoff to Treat Elderly Patients with Head and Neck Cancer? Comparing with Septuagenarians and Octogenarians

With the increase in life expectancy, age is no longer considered as a limitation for treatment. Nevertheless, the treatment of elderly patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) remains controversial. Here, we aimed to review our experience with the treatment for elderly patients, while particularly focusing on the differences among older old patients (septuagenarians vs. octogenarians). We retrospectively reviewed the records of 260 elderly patients who were assigned to 3 groups according to age: 70 years old ≤ group 1 < 75 years old, 75 years old ≤ group 2 < 80 years old, and group 3 ≥ 80 years old. The patients were assessed for comorbidities using the Adult Comorbidity Evaluation (ACE)-27, and the American Society of Anesthesia (ASA) physical status was also compared. Group 1, 2, and 3, consisted of 97, 102, and 61 patients, respectively. No significant difference in demographic data was noted among the groups. However, group 3 showed more comorbidities than groups 1 and 2. With regard to the initial treatment for HNC, radiation therapy (RT) was more frequently performed in group 3 than in groups 1 and 2. Among 7 patients of non-compliant to treatment in group 3, 6 patients had have performed RT. In group 3, a total of 18 patients underwent surgery, including microvascular free flap reconstruction and no significant difference in complications was observed postoperatively compared with group 1 and 2. Moreover, no significant difference was noted in overall survival between the groups, regardless of the treatment modality chosen. In conclusion, octogenarians with HNC should be more carefully managed than septuagenarians with HNC. Surgical treatment can be considered in octogenarians with HNC, if it can be tolerated.

Clinical Significance of Early Detection of Esophageal Cancer in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The efficacy of surveillance for esophageal squamous cell neoplasia (ESCN) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains controversial. Our study aimed to provide clinical data concerning the necessity of surveillance for detecting early ESCN in patients with HNSCC. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the data from 714 patients who were pathologically confirmed as having HNSCC (n=236 oral cavity cancers, 137 oropharyngeal cancers, 87 hypopharyngeal cancers, and 254 laryngeal cancers). RESULTS: Of 714 patients, during a median follow-up of 31 months, 48 ESCNs (37 synchronous and 11 metachronous) were detected in 36 patients (5%). Fifteen synchronous lesions (40.3%) were early ESCN, whereas nine metachronous lesions (81.8%) were early ESCN. The 3-year survival rates of HNSCC only and HNSCC combined with ESCN were 71.2% and 48.2%, respectively (p<0.001). Among 36 patients with ESCN, the 3-year survival rates for early and advanced ESCN were 77.7% and 21.7%, respectively (p=0.01). In the multivariate analysis, alcohol consumption and hypopharyngeal cancer were significant factors associated with the development of ESCN. CONCLUSIONS: HNSCC patients with early ESCN were similar in prognosis with patients without ESCN, in contrast to patients with advanced ESCN. Therefore, surveillance for the early detection of ESCN in patients with HNSCC, especially in alcohol drinkers and those with hypopharyngeal cancer, is warranted.

Clinical Significance of Early Detection of Esophageal Cancer in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The efficacy of surveillance for esophageal squamous cell neoplasia (ESCN) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains controversial. Our study aimed to provide clinical data concerning the necessity of surveillance for detecting early ESCN in patients with HNSCC. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the data from 714 patients who were pathologically confirmed as having HNSCC (n=236 oral cavity cancers, 137 oropharyngeal cancers, 87 hypopharyngeal cancers, and 254 laryngeal cancers). RESULTS: Of 714 patients, during a median follow-up of 31 months, 48 ESCNs (37 synchronous and 11 metachronous) were detected in 36 patients (5%). Fifteen synchronous lesions (40.3%) were early ESCN, whereas nine metachronous lesions (81.8%) were early ESCN. The 3-year survival rates of HNSCC only and HNSCC combined with ESCN were 71.2% and 48.2%, respectively (p<0.001). Among 36 patients with ESCN, the 3-year survival rates for early and advanced ESCN were 77.7% and 21.7%, respectively (p=0.01). In the multivariate analysis, alcohol consumption and hypopharyngeal cancer were significant factors associated with the development of ESCN. CONCLUSIONS: HNSCC patients with early ESCN were similar in prognosis with patients without ESCN, in contrast to patients with advanced ESCN. Therefore, surveillance for the early detection of ESCN in patients with HNSCC, especially in alcohol drinkers and those with hypopharyngeal cancer, is warranted.

Weekly chemotherapy as Induction chemotherapy in locally advanced head and neck cancer for patients ineligible for 3 weekly maximum tolerable dose chemotherapy.

OBJECTIVE: To study the safety and efficacy of weekly chemotherapy as part of induction chemotherapy, in locally advanced head and neck cancer for patients, who are unfit for upfront radical treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: It is a retrospective analysis of on‑use weekly chemotherapy as Induction chemotherapy in locally advanced head and neck cancer, who are technically unresectable are unfit for upfront radical treatment. Induction chemotherapy given was a 2 drug combination of paclitaxel (80 mg/m2) and carboplatin AUC 2. The decision to give weekly induction chemotherapy was given on the basis of presence of 2 more following features: Poor performance status (ECOG PS 2‑3), presence of uncontrolled co morbidities, BMI below 18.5 kg/m2 and age more than 60 years. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software (SPSS version 16.0) was used for analysis. The response rates, toxicity (accordance with CTCAE vs. 4.02), completion rate (Cp) of radical intent treatment post neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT), progression‑free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) are reported. RESULTS: Fifteen patients were considered for such therapy. Fourteen out of fifteen patients completed NACT. The median numbers of planned weekly cycles were 6 (3-8). Response (CR + PR) was seen in 10 patients. Overall grade 3-4 toxicity was seen in 6 patients. No toxicity related mortality was noted. The calculated completion rate (Cp) of radical intent treatment post NACT was 46.7%. The median PFS and OS were 10.36 months (95% CI 6.73-14.00 months) and 16.53 months (95% CI 4.22-28.84). CONCLUSION: Use of induction chemotherapy with weekly regimen is safe and effective selected cohort of patients with locally advanced disease who are unfit for upfront radical treatment.

Clinical characteristics, pathological distribution, and prognostic factors in non-Hodgkin lymphoma of Waldeyer's ring: nationwide Korean study

BACKGROUND/AIMS: In Asia, the incidence of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) has increased in recent decades. Waldeyer's ring (WR) is the most common site of NHL involving the head and neck. In this study, the pathological distribution of WR-NHL and its clinical features were analyzed retrospectively. METHODS: From January 2000 through December 2010, we analyzed the medical records of 328 patients from nine Korean institutions who were diagnosed with WR-NHL. RESULTS: The study group comprised 197 male and 131 female patients with a median age of 58 years (range, 14 to 89). The rate of localized disease (stage I/II) was 64.9%, and that of low-risk disease (low/low-intermediate, as defined by the International Prognostic Index) was 76.8%. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL; 240 patients, 73.2%) was the most common pathologic subtype, followed by peripheral T-cell lymphoma (14 patients, 4.3%) and nasal NK/T-cell lymphoma (14 patients, 4.3%). WR-NHL occurred most frequently in the tonsils (199 patients, 60.6%). Extranodal involvement was greater with the T-cell subtype (20 patients, 42.5%) compared with the B-cell subtype (69 patients, 24.5%). Multivariate analyses showed that age > or = 62 years, T-cell subtype, and failure to achieve complete remission were significant risk factors for overall survival. CONCLUSIONS: DLBCL was found to have a higher incidence in Korea than those incidences reported by other WR-NHL studies. T-cell lymphoma occurred more frequently than did follicular lymphoma. T-cell subtype, age > or = 62 years, and complete remission failure after first-line treatment were significant poor prognostic factors for overall survival according to the multivariate analysis.

An evaluation of treatment strategies for head and neck cancer in an African American population / Evaluación de las estrategias del tratamiento para el cáncer de cabeza y cuello en una población afroamericana

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated treatment strategies for head and neck cancers in a predominantly African American population. METHODS: Data were collected utilizing medical records and the tumour registry at the Howard University Hospital. Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis predicted the hazard of death. RESULTS: Analysis revealed that the main treatment strategy was radiation combined with platinum for all stages except stage I. Cetuximab was employed in only 1% of cases. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed stage II patients had poorer outcome than stage IV while Cox proportional hazard regression analysis (p = 0.4662) showed that stage I had a significantly lower hazard of death than stage IV (HR = 0.314; p = 0.0272). Contributory factors included tobacco and alcohol but body mass index (BMI) was inversely related to hazard of death. CONCLUSIONS: There was no difference in survival using any treatment modality for African Americans.

OBJETIVO: Este estudio evaluó las estrategias del tratamiento para los cánceres de cabeza y cuello en una población predominantemente afroamericana. MÉTODOS: Se recopilaron datos utilizando historias clínicas y el registro de tumores del Hospital Universitario Howard. Se utilizó el método de Kaplan-Meier para el análisis de supervivencia, y el análisis de regresión de riesgos proporcionales de Cox para predecir los riesgos de muerte. RESULTADOS: El análisis reveló que la estrategia principal para el tratamiento fue la radiación combinada con platino para todas las etapas, excepto la etapa I. Se empleó cetuximab en sólo 1% de los casos. El análisis de Kaplan-Meier reveló que los pacientes de etapa II tuvieron resultados más pobres que los de la etapa IV, mientras que el análisis de regresión de riesgos proporcionales de Cox (p = 0.4662) mostró que la etapa I tenía un riesgo de muerte significativamente menor que la etapa IV (HR = 0.314; p = 0.0272). Los factores contribuyentes incluyeron el tabaco y el alcohol, pero el índice de masa (IMC) fue inversamente proporcional al riesgo de muerte. CONCLUSIONES: No hubo diferencias en la supervivencia con ninguna de las modalidades de tratamiento para los afroamericanos.

Prognosticators and the relationship of depression and quality of life in head and neck cancer.

Background and Purpose: To evaluate the relationship of emotional status and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in disease-free head and neck cancer (HNC) patients post treatment and to explore their predictive factors. Materials and Methods: Seventy-three HNC patients, post treatment at least 1 year, were recruited to complete three questionnaires, EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC-H&N35 cancer module, and the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Results: Patients with depression demonstrated significantly poor global health status/QoL (score 41.7 vs. 71.9, P<0.001) and almost all functioning, except for role functioning. Besides, depressive patients presented statistically significant worse symptoms in all QLQ-C30 items, except constipation and financial problems, and in all QLQ-H&N35 symptoms except for teeth and coughing problems. Depression was significantly negative correlated with all functional scales and global health status/QoL (r = -0.341 to -0.750, all P<0.05), and was significantly positive correlated with symptom scales (r = 0.348 to 0.793, all P<0.05), except for constipation. Stepwise multiple linear regression analyses showed that physical functioning and physical distressful symptoms play an important role in the perception of HRQOL (total 46% explained). Global health status and impaired social functioning could explain depression in addition to emotional functioning (total 64% explained). Conclusions: HNC patients with depression were noted to have poorer HRQOL in almost every functioning symptom. HNC patients may get benefit from early interventions to improve HRQOL, emotional status, or both by a more rapid and friendly questionnaire to earlier identify patients with poor HRQOL or depressive status.

O impacto do nível da metástase cervical no prognóstico dos pacientes com carcinoma epidermoide de cavidade oral / Prognostic impact of the level of neck metastasis in oral cancer patients

Em pacientes com carcinoma epidermoide oral, classifica-se o pescoço pelo número, tamanho e lateralidade das metastáses. OBJETIVO: Avaliar fatores de risco para metástase em nível IV/V e seu impacto no prognóstico do carcinoma epidermoide oral. MÉTODO: Estudo retrospectivo. Critérios de inclusão foram: diagnóstico de CEC, sítio primário em andar inferior da boca sem extensão para sítios extraorais, ausência de tratamento prévio, realização de EC e presença de metástases linfáticas. Por regressão logística, definiram-se fatores de risco e por análise de sobrevivência, fatores prognósticos de recorrência. Análise classificatória realizada por particionamento recursivo. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos 307 pacientes. Em regressão logística univariada, o estágio pN, embolização vascular, e múltiplos linfonodos comprometidos foram fatores de risco para metástases em nível IV/V. Embolização vascular e múltiplos linfonodos comprometidos permaneceram significativos em análise multivariada. A análise de sobrevivência demonstrou os estágios pT e pN, infiltração perineural, embolização vascular, número de linfonodos metastáticos, razão linfonodal e metástases em níveis IV/V como significativos. Na análise multivariada, PT, pN, embolização vascular linfática e metástases em níveis IV/V permaneceram significativas. Na análise classificatória, o estágio pN não foi significativo quando há metástases em níveis IV/V. CONCLUSÃO: A ocorrência de metástases em níveis IV/V foi significativa para sobrevivência doença-específica.

Neck staging in oral cancer depends on the number of compromised nodes, their size and side of occurrence. OBJECTIVE: This paper aims to evaluate risk factors for metastatic nodes in levels IV/V and their prognostic impact on patients with oral carcinoma. METHOD: Retrospective study. Inclusion criteria: pathologist's diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma, primary tumor in the lower oral cavity, no extension into extraoral sites, no previous treatment, synchronous neck dissection and presence of metastatic nodes. Risk factors for metastasis were evaluated through logistic regression and disease-specific survival and recurrence by survival analysis. Classificatory analysis was performed through recursive partitioning. RESULTS: 307 patients met the inclusion criteria. Univariate logistic regression identified pN stage, vascular invasion, and multiple metastatic nodes as risk factors for metastases in levels IV/V. Multivariate analysis found vascular invasion and multiple metastatic nodes were significant. Survival analysis revealed pT, pN, neural infiltration, vascular invasion, number of metastatic nodes, metastases in levels IV/V, and node ratio were significant factors. In multivariate survival analysis, pT, pN, vascular invasion and metastases in levels IV/V were significant. Classificatory analysis showed that pN is non-significant in patients with level IV/V metastases. CONCLUSION: The occurrence of metastases in levels IV/V was significant for disease-specific survival.

Education, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, and IL-2 and IL-6 gene polymorphisms in the survival of head and neck cancer

The association of education, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, and interleukin-2 (IL-2 +114 and -384) and -6 (IL-6 -174) DNA polymorphisms with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) was investigated in a cohort study of 445 subjects. IL-2 and IL-6 genotypes were determined by real-time PCR. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95 percent confidence intervals (95 percentCI) of disease-specific survival according to anatomical sites of the head and neck. Mean age was 56 years and most patients were males (87.6 percent). Subjects with 5 or more years of schooling had better survival in larynx cancer. Smoking had no effect on HNSCC survival, but alcohol consumption had a statistically significant effect on larynx cancer. IL-2 gene +114 G/T (HR = 0.52; 95 percentCI = 0.15-1.81) and T/T (HR = 0.22; 95 percentCI = 0.02-3.19) genotypes were associated with better survival in hypopharynx cancer. IL-2 +114 G/T was a predictor of poor survival in oral cavity/oropharynx cancer and larynx cancer (HR = 1.32; 95 percentCI = 0.61-2.85). IL-2 -384 G/T was associated with better survival in oral cavity/oropharynx cancer (HR = 0.80; 95 percentCI = 0.45-1.42) and hypopharynx cancer (HR = 0.68; 95 percentCI = 0.21-2.20), but an inverse relationship was observed for larynx cancer. IL-6 -174 G/C was associated with better survival in hypopharynx cancer (HR = 0.68; 95 percentCI = 0.26-1.78) and larynx cancer (HR = 0.93; 95 percentCI = 0.42-2.07), and C/C reduced mortality in larynx cancer. In general, our results are similar to previous reports on the value of education, smoking, alcohol consumption, and IL-2 and IL-6 genetic polymorphisms for the prognosis of HNSCC, but the risks due to these variables are small and estimates imprecise.

Osteosarcomas de la región de cabeza y cuello / Osteosarcoma of the head and neck area: analysis of 12 patients

Background: Less than 10 percent of osteosarcomas are located the head and neck region, mainly affecting the mandible and maxillary region. Aim: To analyze the therapeutic modality, types of reconstruction, surgical complications and survival of patients treated for osteosarcoma of the head and neck. Material and Methods: Review of medical records of 12 patients aged 17 to 34 years (6 women) treated for osteosarcoma of the head and neck between September 1998 and may 2009. Results: The localization of the tumor was maxillary in eight, mandibular three and ethmoidal in one patient. According to histologic grade, seven tumors were grade 1, four were grade 2 and one was grade 3. Adjuvant and neoadjuvant chemotherapy were administered to all and seven patients, respectively. The surgical treatment for maxillary tumors was maxillectomy. A reconstruction with rectum abdomini free flap was done in four patients and with dermoepidermic graft and an obturator prosthesis in three. In one patient, the defect was covered with a dental prosthesis. Treatment for mandibular tumors was mandibular excision. A reconstruction with peroneal free flap was performed in two patients and with an iliac crest graft in one. The ethmoidal tumor was resected and covered with local flaps. There were four complications. Two patients had a cutaneous fistula, one patient had a free flap partial atrophy and one patient had surgical site infection. Two patients who had positive margins died from local recurrence. Of the 10 patients with negative margins, seven are alive without recurrence, one died due to the disease, one has disseminated disease and one died from another cause. Conclusions: Our results in the treatment of head and neck osteosarcomas are consistent with published data.

Objetivos: Analizar la modalidad terapéutica, tipos de reconstrucción, complicaciones quirúrgicas y sobrevida de un grupo de pacientes tratados por esta patología. Métodos: Revisión de fichas clínicas de 12 pacientes portadores de osteosarcoma de cabeza y cuello entre septiembre de 1998 y mayo de 2009. Resultados: Edad promedio 30 años (17-34), 6 mujeres y 6 hombres. Localización fue 8 maxilar, 3 mandibular y 1 etmoidales. 7 tumores G1, 4 G2 y 1 G3. Siete pacientes recibieron quimioterapia neoadyuvante y todos adyuvante. El tratamiento de tumores maxilares fueron maxilectomías reconstruidas 4 con colgajo libre de recto abdominal, 3 con injerto dermoepidérmico más prótesis obturadora y una con prótesis dentaria. Se realizó mandibulectomía a los tumores mandibulares, 2 reconstruidos con colgajo libre de peroné y uno con injerto de cresta ilíaca. El tratamiento del tumor etmoidal fue resección craneofacial y se reparó con colgajos locales. Hubo 4 complicaciones; 2 fístulas cutáneas, una atrofia parcial de colgajo libre y una infección de herida operatoria. Dos pacientes tuvieron bordes comprometidos, quienes murieron por recidiva local. De los 10 pacientes con bordes libres, 7 se encuentran sin evidencia de recidiva, uno con enfermedad diseminada, uno fallecido por la enfermedad y uno fallecido por otra causa. Conclusiones: Nuestros resultados son consistentes con la literatura.

Epidemiología del linfoma con compromiso de cabeza y cuello en el Centro Asistencial Sótero del Río / Epidemiology of lymphoma of the head and neck in the Centro Asistencial Sótero del Río

Introducción: Los linfomas son la neoplasia hematológica más frecuente del adulto, ocupando el tercer lugar de las neoplasias de cabeza y cuello (CyC). Se distinguen dos tipos, el linfoma de Hodgkin (LH) y el linfoma no Hodgkin (LNH), constituyendo dos entidades clínicas separadas. Objetivo: Evaluar las manifestaciones de los linfomas en la región de CyC, analizando las diferencias de presentación y comportamiento entre en LH y el LNH. Material y método: Estudio retrospectivo de todos los casos de linfomas de CyC en el Centro Asistencial Dr. Sótero del Roo (CASR) entre los años 2005 y 2009, documentando específicamente presentación clínica, factores de riesgo, el tipo de linfoma, diagnóstico histológico, localización anatómica, etapificación al momento del diagnóstico, tratamiento administrado, sobrevida. Resultados: Se incluyeron 80 casos de pacientes con linfoma de CyC en el estudio, 16 (20 por ciento) con LH y 64 (80 por ciento) con LNH. Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre ambos para la edad de diagnóstico, el compromiso extranodal, compromiso de mediastino, presencia de síntomas B y sobrevida. Conclusión: En el CASR la presentación de los linfomas es similar a la reportada mundialmente con diferencias similares entre LH y LNH.

Introduction: Lymphomas are the most common hematologic neoplasia in the adult and the third most common neoplasias of the head and neck (CyC). There are two types of lymphoma: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, which constitute two unique clinical entities. Aim: To evaluate the clinical manifestations of lymphomas in the CyC region, analizing the diferences between the clinical presentation and behavior of LH and LNH. Material and method: This is an retrospective study of all the cases of lymphoma of CyC in the Centro Asistencial Dr. Sótero del Río (CASR) between the years 2005 and 2009, describing specifically the clinical presentation, risk factors, type of lymphoma, histologic diagnosis, anatomical localization, etapification at diagnosis, treatment received and survival. Results: Eighty cases of lymphoma of the CyC were included, 16 patients (20 percent) with LH and 64 patients (80 percent) with LNH. We found statistically significant differences between both groups for their age at diagnosis, extranodal disease, mediastinal compromise, presence of "B" symptoms and survival. Conclusion: in the CASR the clinical presentation of lymphomas is similar to that reported in the international literature, maintaining the unique characteristics for LH and LNH.