Primary Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Parotid Gland: Study and Review of the Literature.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the parotid gland (pPSCC) is a rare tumor, accounting for less than 3% of all parotid carcinomas. There is no general consensus on the management of this tumor, since clinical experience for pPSCC is minimal. Moreover, pPSCC is often misdiagnosed for metastatic cutaneous carcinoma. In our study, we focused on evaluating its biological and clinical characteristics, treatment results and prognosis. We proposed an update on diagnostic and therapeutic management of pPSCC. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The retrospective cohort included 18 patients diagnosed and treated for pPSCC in three tertiary head and neck centers between 2008 and 2022. We retrospectively evaluated their prognosis and established a therapeutic recommendation after analyzing our own and previously published data. RESULTS: Fourteen of 18 tumors were diagnosed in stage IV. Five-year overall survival was 36 months. Six patients received palliative therapy. Twelve patients underwent parotidectomy, neck dissection, and adjuvant radiotherapy. Remission was achieved in 8 patients (follow-up interval 3-56 months). One patient died with recurrent disease. The others are alive and in complete remission. CONCLUSION: The definitive diagnosis of pPSCC must meet the histological and clinical criteria. First of all, the metastatic origin of the tumor must be excluded. Five-year survival of this very aggressive tumor does not exceed 50%. Without surgery, the prognosis is poor. The best results, irrespective of tumor stage, are achieved with surgery. Therefore, a total parotidectomy, neck dissection (therapeutic or elective) and adjuvant radiotherapy are indicated for all resectable tumors.

The Balkan Wars in prof. Precechtel's memories.

Professor Precechtel's memories of the Balkan Wars of 1912-1913 have various facets and encompass different impressions and phases of these events. They trace the preparations in Prague and the journey to Montenegro, the ancient city of Cetinje among the poor and primitive people, experiences in the Albanian environment plagued by diseases, and the war experienced in Bulgaria. Czech doctors enthusiastically aided their Slavic brethren in the Balkans, who fought for liberation and rights. Initially, they were received coolly and with reservation as the local population had no experience with Czech doctors. However, over time, the medical expeditions proved their worth. Albania presented many obstacles, including a shortage of medicines and suitable food. The army suffered from droughts and exhaustion, leading to high mortality rates and infections. Medical activities were carried out under difficult conditions, lacking hygiene and basic supplies. Despite all the difficulties, the doctors strove to provide help, and their work was invaluable. Memories of the Balkan War are filled with stories of scarcity, challenges, human suffering, and determination to aid and solidarity.

Vlastimil Dostálek, MD - the founder of the ENT department in Nový Jicín - and his followers.

Vlastimil Dostálek was born on January 18th, 1910, in the village of Vcelary. Within his university studies in Brno, he was interested in otorhinolaryngology and subsequent the graduating from the medical faculty of Masaryk University, dr. Dostálek began to devote himself entirely to this field. He worked in various ENT departments led by important protagonists of his time. After the end of the Second World War, he was entrusted with building the ENT department in Nový Jicín, which he succeeded and led this department for over three decades until 1976 when he was dismantled for political reasons. Vlastimil Dostálek contributed to the development of the field in the entire district and educated many expert doctors, making him one of the prominent personalities of the Nový Jicín region. He died in 1988 at the age of 78.

Otakar Tardy, the founder of the ENT department in Litomysl - commemoration on the 45th anniversary of his death.

Otakar Tardy was born on June 14th 1907 in Kutná Hora. He graduated from the medical faculty of Masaryk university in Brno and trained at the local ENT clinic under the supervision of professor Frantisek Ninger. In 1938 he founded the ENT department in Litomysl, one of the largest in Czechoslovakia. He significantly contributed to the development of organized health care in the East Bohemian region and was very involved in social life. He headed the department until 1971 when he retired. He died in 1978.