Correlation of tumour size, cervical node metastasis and histological differentiation in patients with head and neck cancers, a hospital-based study

Abstract

Head and neck cancers usually arise in the squamous cells that line the moist mucosal surfaces of the head and neck. They can present in the salivary glands, palate, below the tongue and other areas of mouth. They are further classified by the area from which they originate. These represent approximately 3% of all cancers. Early diagnosis is important to save the patient's life. This study was done to correlate the cancers with the tumour size, histology and site of origin. A total of 60 patients were selected for the study. All the patients' demographic and clinical data were recorded. It was observed that a majority of patients had tumour size of 2.1-4cms. Buccal mucosa, Alveolus, Hard Palate, ant. 2/3 of tongue, floor of mouth, Maxillary antrum had more cancers as compared to other areas. 28 patients had well defined cancer with correlation to cervical mode metastasis. These correlations are useful in the diagnosis of type of cancer with area. It was concluded that knowledge of the site and size of the tumour with histological grading helps formulate a treatment plan for the patient.