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High‐risk squamous cell carcinoma of the ear — A potential role for sentinel node biopsy
Author(s) -
Beecher Suzanne,
Wrafter Paula F.,
Joyce Cormac W.,
Regan Padraic J.,
Kelly Jack L.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
head and neck
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.012
H-Index - 127
eISSN - 1097-0347
pISSN - 1043-3074
DOI - 10.1002/hed.24843
Subject(s) - perineural invasion , medicine , sentinel lymph node , lymphovascular invasion , biopsy , metastasis , sentinel node , basal cell , pathology , oncology , cancer , breast cancer
Background Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) of the external ear have a significant rate of metastasis. The purpose of this study was to present analyzed factors associated with auricular SCC metastasis in order to identify a group that may benefit from sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). Methods We performed a retrospective review of all operable SCCs between 2009 and 2014. The association between high‐risk features and metastasis were analyzed. Results One hundred eighty‐nine auricular SCCs were excised. Local recurrence was noted in 11% and 9.5% developed metastases. Cartilage, perineural, and lymphovascular invasion were significantly associated with metastasis, as were increased tumor depth and diameter ( P < .001). All patients with metastasis developed nodal disease. Conclusion Factors, including poor differentiation, perineural, cartilage, and lymphovascular invasion, are associated with auricular SCC metastasis. Patients with 2 or more high‐risk features may benefit from SLNB in order to identify and treat early nodal disease and possibly reduce the risk of further spread.