|
|||||
|
|
Definitive radiotherapy for T1 and T2 squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil |
|
| Authors: | Dr. B. Dawn Moose MD Dr. Maria D. Kelly MD Dr. Paul A. Levine MD Dr. William C. Constable MB ChB DMRT FACR FRCR Robert W. Cantrell MD James M. Larner MD |
| Affiliation: | 1. Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, Charlottesville, Virginia;2. Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, Charlottesville, Virginia;3. Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, Charlottesville, Virginia Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, Charlottesville, Virginia |
| Abstract: | 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. |
| Keywords: | |