Current thinking in the management of adenoid cystic carcinoma of the head and neck.

ABSTRACT

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is an aggressive, rare, malignant tumour that accounts for about 1% of all head and neck neoplasms and 10% of all salivary gland tumours. It is characterised by frequent local recurrences and distant metastases. Growth is slow but relentless, and progression poses a challenge to head and neck clinicians. Many small retrospective studies have described its clinical management, but the lack of multicentre, randomised, controlled trials has resulted in inconsistencies in management globally. We have focused on three key management-related controversies the role of elective neck dissection (END) for the N0 neck; the role of adjuvant treatment or radiotherapy; and finally, the follow-up protocol, particularly cross-sectional surveillance imaging of the full body or chest computed tomography (CT) alone, and options for treatment if metastases are found. The paucity of published studies may reflect the inconsistencies that exist in the management of ACC of the head and neck in the UK. The collaboration of head and neck centres would, we think, help to correct the imbalance in these three domains of care.