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Definitive radiotherapy for T1 and T2 squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil
Author(s) -
Moose B. Dawn,
Kelly Maria D.,
Levine Paul A.,
Constable William C.,
Cantrell Robert W.,
Larner James M.
Publication year - 1995
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.2880170410
Subject(s) - tonsil , medicine , radiation therapy , fossa , basal cell , carcinoma , survival rate , surgery
Background. To assess whether survival or local control of early squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil has been compromised by a moderate‐dose approach. Methods. Between 1970 and 1989, 185 patients with SCCa of the tonsil were seen at our institution. Fifty‐three patients with T1 (30) and T2 (23) lesions treated with definitive radiotherapy were reviewed. Median follow‐up was 60 months. The effects of total dose and site of the primary on survival and local regional control were analyzed. Results. Three‐year determinate survival was 77%. Mean total dose was 63.1 Gy. Site of the primary significantly affected survival (86% for fossa, 54% for pillars, p < 0.025). Local control at 2 years was 81% and was independent of dose ≥ 63 Gy or site of the primary. Grade 4 complications defined by the RTOG/EORTC Acute Morbidity criteria occurred in three patients. Conclusions. Tumor doses on the order of 63 Gy or less result in excellent local control and survival rates for T1 and T2 carcinomas of the tonsil. Local control rates are better for fossa lesions than for pillar lesions. © 1995 Jons Wiley & Sons, Inc.