Table of Contents Purpose of This PDQ Summary General Information Cellular Classification Stage Information
Treatment Option Overview Stage I Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer Stage II Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer Stage III Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer Stage IV Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer Recurrent Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer Get More Information From NCI Changes to This Summary (05/22/2008) More Information
Purpose of This PDQ Summary
This PDQ cancer information summary for health professionals provides comprehensive, peer-reviewed, evidence-based information about the treatment of lip and oral cavity cancer. This summary is reviewed regularly and updated as necessary by the PDQ Adult Treatment Editorial Board.
Information about the following is included in this summary:
- Anatomy and prognosis.
- Cellular classification.
- Staging.
- Treatment options by cancer stage and type.
This summary is intended as a resource to inform and assist clinicians who care for cancer patients. It does not provide formal guidelines or recommendations for making health care decisions.
Some of the reference citations in the summary are accompanied by a level-of-evidence designation. These designations are intended to help readers assess the strength of the evidence supporting the use of specific interventions or approaches. The PDQ Adult Treatment Editorial Board uses a formal evidence ranking system in developing its level-of-evidence designations. Based on the strength of the available evidence, treatment options are described as either “standard” or “under clinical evaluation.” These classifications should not be used as a basis for reimbursement determinations.
This summary is available in a patient version, written in less technical language, and in Spanish.
Back to Top General Information
Note: Separate PDQ summaries on Oral Cancer Prevention and Oral Cancer Screening are also available.
The oral cavity extends from the skin-vermilion junctions of the anterior lips
to the junction of the hard and soft palates above and to the line of
circumvallate papillae below and is divided into the following specific areas:
- Lip.
- Anterior two thirds of tongue.
- Buccal mucosa.
- Floor of mouth.
- Lower gingiva.
- Retromolar trigone.
- Upper gingiva.
- Hard palate.
The main routes of lymph node drainage are into the first station nodes
(i.e., buccinator, jugulodigastric, submandibular, and submental). Sites close to
the midline often drain bilaterally. Second station nodes include the parotid,
jugular, and the upper and lower posterior cervical nodes.
Early cancers (stage I and stage II) of the lip and oral cavity are highly curable
by surgery or by radiation therapy, and the choice of treatment is dictated by
the anticipated functional and cosmetic results of treatment and by the
availability of the particular expertise required of the surgeon or radiation
oncologist for the individual patient.[1-3] The presence of a positive margin
or a tumor depth of more than 5 mm significantly increases the risk of
local recurrence and suggests that combined modality treatment may be
beneficial.[4,5]
Advanced cancers (stage III and stage IV) of the lip and oral cavity represent a
wide spectrum of challenges for the surgeon and radiation oncologist. Except
for patients with small T3 lesions and no regional lymph node and no distant
metastases or who have no lymph nodes larger than 2 cm, for whom
treatment by radiation therapy alone or surgery alone might be appropriate,
most patients with stage III or stage IV tumors are candidates for treatment by a
combination of surgery and radiation therapy.[2] Furthermore, because local
recurrence and/or distant metastases are common in this group of patients, they
should be considered for clinical trials. Such trials evaluate the potential
role of radiation modifiers or combination chemotherapy combined with surgery
and/or radiation therapy.
Patients with head and neck cancers have an increased chance of developing a
second primary tumor of the upper aerodigestive tract.[6,7] A study has shown
that daily treatment of these patients with moderate doses of isotretinoin
(13-cis-retinoic acid) for 1 year can significantly reduce the incidence of
second tumors. No survival advantage has yet been demonstrated, however, in
part due to recurrence and death from the primary malignancy. Additional
trials are ongoing.[8]
The rate of curability of cancers of the lip and oral cavity varies depending
on the stage and specific site. Most patients present with early cancers of
the lip, which are highly curable by surgery or by radiation therapy with cure
rates of 90% to 100%. Small cancers of the retromolar trigone, hard palate,
and upper gingiva are highly curable by either radiation therapy or surgery,
with survival rates of as much as 100%. Local control rates of as much as 90% can be
achieved with either radiation therapy or surgery in small cancers of the
anterior tongue, the floor of the mouth, and buccal mucosa.[9]
Moderately advanced and advanced cancers of the lip also can be controlled
effectively by surgery or radiation therapy or a combination of these. The
choice of treatment is generally dictated by the anticipated functional and
cosmetic results of the treatment. Moderately advanced lesions of the
retromolar trigone without evidence of spread to cervical lymph nodes are
usually curable and have shown local control rates of as much as 90%; such lesions of the
hard palate, upper gingiva, and buccal mucosa have a local control rate of as much as 80%. In the absence of clinical evidence of spread to cervical lymph nodes,
moderately advanced lesions of the floor of the mouth and anterior tongue are
generally curable with survival rates of as much as 70% and 65%, respectively.[9,10]
References
-
Cummings CW, Fredrickson JM, Harker LA, et al.: Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. Saint Louis, Mo: Mosby-Year Book, Inc., 1998.
-
Harrison LB, Sessions RB, Hong WK, eds.: Head and Neck Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott-Raven, 1999.
-
Wang CC, ed.: Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck Neoplasms. 3rd ed. New York: Wiley-Liss, 1997.
-
Jones KR, Lodge-Rigal RD, Reddick RL, et al.: Prognostic factors in the recurrence of stage I and II squamous cell cancer of the oral cavity. Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 118 (5): 483-5, 1992.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Po Wing Yuen A, Lam KY, Lam LK, et al.: Prognostic factors of clinically stage I and II oral tongue carcinoma-A comparative study of stage, thickness, shape, growth pattern, invasive front malignancy grading, Martinez-Gimeno score, and pathologic features. Head Neck 24 (6): 513-20, 2002.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Day GL, Blot WJ: Second primary tumors in patients with oral cancer. Cancer 70 (1): 14-9, 1992.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
van der Tol IG, de Visscher JG, Jovanovic A, et al.: Risk of second primary cancer following treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip. Oral Oncol 35 (6): 571-4, 1999.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Hong WK, Lippman SM, Itri LM, et al.: Prevention of second primary tumors with isotretinoin in squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck. N Engl J Med 323 (12): 795-801, 1990.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Wallner PE, Hanks GE, Kramer S, et al.: Patterns of Care Study. Analysis of outcome survey data-anterior two-thirds of tongue and floor of mouth. Am J Clin Oncol 9 (1): 50-7, 1986.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Takagi M, Kayano T, Yamamoto H, et al.: Causes of oral tongue cancer treatment failures. Analysis of autopsy cases. Cancer 69 (5): 1081-7, 1992.
[PUBMED Abstract]
Back to Top Cellular Classification
Most head and neck cancers are of the squamous cell variety and may be preceded
by various precancerous lesions. Minor salivary gland tumors are not uncommon
in these sites. Specimens removed from the lesions may show the carcinomas to
be noninvasive, in which case the term carcinoma in situ is applied. An
invasive carcinoma will be either well-differentiated, moderately
well-differentiated, poorly differentiated or undifferentiated.
Tumor grading is recommended using Broder classification (Tumor Grade [G]):
- G1: well-differentiated.
- G2: moderately well-differentiated.
- G3: poorly-differentiated.
- G4: undifferentiated.[1]
No statistically significant correlation between degree of differentiation and
the biologic behavior of the cancer exists; however, vascular invasion is a
negative prognostic factor.[2]
Other tumors of glandular epithelium, odontogenic apparatus, lymphoid tissue,
soft tissue, and bone and cartilage origin require special consideration and
are not included in this section of PDQ. Reference to the World Health
Organization nomenclature is recommended.
The term leukoplakia should be used only as a clinically descriptive term
meaning that the observer sees a white patch that does not rub off, the
significance of which depends on the histologic findings. Leukoplakia can
range from hyperkeratosis to an actual early invasive carcinoma or may only
represent a fungal infection, lichen planus, or other benign oral disease.
References
-
Bansberg SF, Olsen KD, Gaffey TA: High-grade carcinoma of the oral cavity. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 100 (1): 41-8, 1989.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Close LG, Brown PM, Vuitch MF, et al.: Microvascular invasion and survival in cancer of the oral cavity and oropharynx. Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 115 (11): 1304-9, 1989.
[PUBMED Abstract]
Back to Top Stage Information
The staging systems are all clinical staging and are based on the best possible
estimate of the extent of disease before treatment. The assessment of the
primary tumor is based on inspection and palpation when possible and by both
indirect mirror examination and direct endoscopy when necessary. The tumor
must be confirmed histologically, and any other pathologic data obtained on
biopsy may be included. The appropriate nodal drainage areas are examined by
careful palpation. Information from diagnostic imaging studies may be used in
staging. Magnetic resonance imaging offers an advantage over computed
tomographic scans in the detection and localization of head and neck tumors and
in the distinction of lymph nodes from blood vessels.[1] If a patient
relapses, complete restaging must be done to select the appropriate additional
therapy.[2,3]
The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) has designated staging by TNM
classification.[4]
TNM Definitions
Primary tumor (T)
Regional lymph nodes (N)
- NX: Regional lymph nodes cannot be assessed
- N0: No regional lymph node metastasis
- N1: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, no larger than 3 cm in greatest
dimension
- N2: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node, larger than 3 cm but no larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension; or in multiple ipsilateral lymph
nodes, no larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension; or in bilateral or
contralateral lymph nodes, no larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension
- N2a: Metastasis in a single ipsilateral lymph node larger than 3 cm but no larger than 6 cm in dimension
- N2b: Metastasis in multiple ipsilateral lymph nodes, no larger than 6 cm
in greatest dimension
- N2c: Metastasis in bilateral or contralateral lymph nodes, no larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension
- N3: Metastasis in a lymph node larger than 6 cm in greatest dimension
In clinical evaluation, the actual size of the nodal mass should be measured
and allowance should be made for intervening soft tissues. Most masses larger than 3 cm in diameter are not single nodes but are confluent nodes or
tumors in soft tissues of the neck. The three stages of clinically positive
nodes are: N1, N2, and N3. The use of subgroups a, b, and c is not required but
is recommended. Midline nodes are considered homolateral nodes.
Distant metastasis (M)
- MX: Distant metastasis cannot be assessed
- M0: No distant metastasis
- M1: Distant metastasis
AJCC Stage Groupings
Stage 0
Stage I
Stage II
Stage III
- T3, N0, M0
- T1, N1, M0
- T2, N1, M0
- T3, N1, M0
Stage IVA
- T4a, N0, M0
- T4a, N1, M0
- T1, N2, M0
- T2, N2, M0
- T3, N2, M0
- T4a, N2, M0
Stage IVB
- Any T, N3, M0
- T4b, any N, M0
Stage IVC
References
-
Consensus conference. Magnetic resonance imaging. JAMA 259 (14): 2132-8, 1988.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Harrison LB, Sessions RB, Hong WK, eds.: Head and Neck Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott-Raven, 1999.
-
Wang CC, ed.: Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck Neoplasms. 3rd ed. New York: Wiley-Liss, 1997.
-
Lip and oral cavity. In: American Joint Committee on Cancer.: AJCC Cancer Staging Manual. 6th ed. New York, NY: Springer, 2002, pp 23-32.
Back to Top Treatment Option Overview
Depending on the site and extent of the primary tumor and the status of the
lymph nodes, the treatment of lip and oral cavity cancer may be by surgery
alone, radiation therapy alone, or a combination of these. Some general
considerations are as follows.[1-5]
For lesions of the oral cavity, surgery must adequately encompass all of the
gross as well as the presumed microscopic extent of the disease. If regional
nodes are positive, cervical node dissection is usually done in continuity.
With modern approaches, the surgeon can successfully ablate large posterior
oral cavity tumors and with reconstructive methods can achieve satisfactory
functional results. Prosthodontic rehabilitation is important, particularly in
early-stage cancers, to assure the best quality of life.
Radiation therapy for lip and oral cavity cancers can be by external-beam
radiation therapy (EBRT) or interstitial implantation alone, but for many sites the use of both
modalities produces better control and functional results. Small superficial
cancers can be very successfully treated by local implantation using any one of
several radioactive sources, by intraoral cone radiation therapy, or by
electrons. Larger lesions are frequently managed using EBRT to include the primary site and regional lymph nodes even if they are
not clinically involved. Supplementation with interstitial radiation sources
may be necessary to achieve adequate doses to large primary tumors and/or bulky
nodal metastases. A review of published clinical results of radical radiation
therapy for head and neck cancer suggests a significant loss of local control
when the administration of radiation therapy was prolonged; therefore,
lengthening of standard treatment schedules should be avoided whenever
possible.[6,7]
Early cancers (stage I and stage II) of the lip, floor of mouth, and retromolar
trigone are highly curable by surgery or radiation therapy. The choice of
treatment is dictated by the anticipated functional and cosmetic results and by
the availability of the particular expertise required of the surgeon or
radiation oncologist for the individual patient. Advanced cancers (stage III
and stage IV) of the lip, floor of mouth, and retromolar trigone represent a wide
spectrum of challenges for the surgeon and radiation oncologists. Except for
patients with small T3 lesions and no regional lymph node and no distant
metastases or who have no lymph nodes larger than 2 cm, for whom
treatment by radiation therapy alone or surgery alone might be appropriate,
most patients with stage III or stage IV tumors are candidates for treatment by a
combination of surgery and radiation therapy. Furthermore, because local
recurrence and/or distant metastases are common in this group of patients, they
should be considered for clinical trials evaluating the following: the
potential role of radiation modifiers to improve local control or decrease
morbidity; or, the role of combinations of chemotherapy with surgery and/or radiation
therapy both to improve local control and to decrease the frequency of distant
metastases.
Early cancers of the buccal mucosa are equally curable by radiation therapy or
by adequate excision. Patient factors and local expertise influence the choice
of treatment. Larger cancers require composite resection with reconstruction
of the defect by pedicle flaps.
Early lesions (T1 and T2) of the anterior tongue may be managed by surgery or
by radiation therapy alone. Both modalities produce 70% to 85% cure rates in
early lesions. Moderate excisions of tongue, even hemiglossectomy, can often
result in surprisingly little speech disability provided the wound closure is
such that the tongue is not bound down. If, however, the resection is more
extensive, problems may include aspiration of liquids and solids and difficulty
in swallowing in addition to speech difficulties. Occasionally, patients with
tumor of the tongue require almost total glossectomy. Large lesions generally
require combined surgical and radiation treatment. The control rates for
larger lesions are about 30% to 40%. According to clinical and radiological
evidence of involvement, cancers of the lower gingiva that are exophytic and
amenable to adequate local excision may be excised to include portions of bone.
More advanced lesions require segmental bone resection, hemimandibulectomy, or
maxillectomy, depending on the extent of the lesion and its location.
Early lesions of the upper gingiva or hard palate without bone involvement can
be treated with equal effectiveness by surgery or by radiation therapy alone.
Advanced infiltrative and ulcerating lesions should be treated by a combination
of radiation therapy and surgery. Most primary cancers of the hard palate are
of minor salivary gland origin. Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the hard
palate is uncommon, and these tumors generally represent invasion of squamous
cell carcinoma arising on the upper gingiva, which is much more common. Thus,
management of squamous cell carcinoma of the upper gingiva and hard palate are
usually considered together. Surgical treatment of cancer of the hard palate
usually requires excision of underlying bone producing an opening into the
antrum. This defect can be filled and covered with a dental prosthesis, a
maneuver that restores satisfactory swallowing and speech.
Patients who smoke while on radiation therapy appear to have lower response
rates and shorter survival durations than those who do not;[8] therefore,
patients should be counseled to stop smoking before beginning radiation
therapy. Dental status evaluation should be performed prior to therapy to
prevent late sequelae.
References
-
Harrison LB, Sessions RB, Hong WK, eds.: Head and Neck Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott-Raven, 1999.
-
Wang CC, ed.: Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck Neoplasms. 3rd ed. New York: Wiley-Liss, 1997.
-
Myers EN, Suen JY, eds.: Cancer of the Head and Neck. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders, 1996.
-
Freund HR: Principles of Head and Neck Surgery. 2nd ed. New York, NY: Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1979.
-
Lore JM: An Atlas of Head and Neck Surgery. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders, 1988.
-
Fowler JF, Lindstrom MJ: Loss of local control with prolongation in radiotherapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 23 (2): 457-67, 1992.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Langendijk JA, de Jong MA, Leemans ChR, et al.: Postoperative radiotherapy in squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity: the importance of the overall treatment time. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 57 (3): 693-700, 2003.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Browman GP, Wong G, Hodson I, et al.: Influence of cigarette smoking on the efficacy of radiation therapy in head and neck cancer. N Engl J Med 328 (3): 159-63, 1993.
[PUBMED Abstract]
Back to Top Stage I Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer
Surgery and/or radiation therapy may be used, depending on the exact site.[1,2]
Small Lesions of the Lip
Standard treatment options:
- Surgery and radiation therapy produce similar cure rates, and the method of
treatment is dictated by the anticipated cosmetic and functional results.
Small Anterior Tongue Lesions
Standard treatment options:
- Wide local excision is often used for small lesions that can be resected
transorally.
- For larger T1 lesions, either surgery or radiation therapy is an acceptable
treatment. Interstitial implantation alone or with external-beam radiation
therapy should be considered. Consideration should be given to irradiating the
neck.
Small Lesions of the Buccal Mucosa
Standard treatment options:
- Lesions smaller than 1 cm in diameter may be managed by surgery alone
if the commissure is not involved. If the commissure is involved, radiation
therapy (including brachytherapy) should be considered.
- Larger T1 lesions may be treated by surgical excision with split-thickness
skin graft or radiation therapy.
Small Lesions of the Floor of the Mouth
Standard treatment options:
- Surgery and radiation therapy produce similar cure rates for T1 lesions.
- In general for lesions smaller than 0.5 cm, excision alone is adequate
if there is a margin of normal mucosa between the lesion and the gingiva.
- For larger lesions, surgery is often used if the lesion is attached to the
periosteum, whereas radiation therapy is often used if the lesion encroaches on
the tongue.
Small Lesions of the Lower Gingiva
Standard treatment options:
- Small lesions may be treated by intraoral resection with or without a rim
resection of bone and repaired with a split-thickness skin graft.
- Radiation therapy may be used for small lesions but results are generally
better after surgery alone.
Small Tumors of the Retromolar Trigone
Standard treatment options:
- For early lesions without detectable bone invasion, limited resection of the
mandible is performed.
- If limited resection is not feasible, radiation therapy may be used
initially with surgery reserved for radiation failure.
Small Lesions of the Upper Gingiva and Hard Palate
Standard treatment options:
- Most small lesions are treated by surgical resection.
- Postoperative radiation therapy may be used if appropriate.
Current Clinical Trials
Check for U.S. clinical trials from NCI's PDQ Cancer Clinical Trials Registry that are now accepting patients with stage I lip and oral cavity cancer. The list of clinical trials can be further narrowed by location, drug, intervention, and other criteria.
General information about clinical trials is also available from the NCI Web site.
References
-
Harrison LB, Sessions RB, Hong WK, eds.: Head and Neck Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott-Raven, 1999.
-
Guerry TL, Silverman S Jr, Dedo HH: Carbon dioxide laser resection of superficial oral carcinoma: indications, technique, and results. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 95 (6 Pt 1): 547-55, 1986 Nov-Dec.
[PUBMED Abstract]
Back to Top Stage II Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer
Surgery and/or radiation therapy may be used, depending on the exact site.[1]
Small Lesions of the Lip
Standard treatment options:
- Surgery is used for smaller T2 lesions on the lower lip if simple closure
produces an acceptable cosmetic result.
- If a reconstructive surgical procedure is required, radiation therapy has
the advantage of producing a relatively better functional and cosmetic result
with intact skin and muscle innervation.
- Radiation therapy may include external-beam and/or interstitial techniques
as appropriate.
Small Anterior Tongue Lesions
Standard treatment options:
- Radiation therapy is usually selected for T2 lesions that have minimal
infiltration to preserve speech and swallowing. Surgery is reserved for
patients for whom radiation treatment failed. Neck dissection may be
considered when primary brachytherapy is used.[2]
- Deeply infiltrative lesions are best treated by surgery, radiation therapy,
or a combination of both.
Small Lesions of the Buccal Mucosa
Standard treatment options:
- Small T2 lesions (≤3 cm) are usually treated by radiation
therapy.
- Large T2 lesions (>3 cm) may be treated by surgery, radiation
therapy, or a combination of these, if indicated. Radiation therapy is often used if the lesion involves the commissure. Surgery is often used if tumor
invades the mandible or maxilla.
Small Lesions of the Floor of the Mouth
Standard treatment options:
- For small T2 lesions (≤3 cm), surgery is often used if the lesion
is attached to the periosteum, whereas radiation therapy is often used if the
lesion encroaches on the tongue.
- For large T2 lesions (>3 cm), surgery and radiation therapy are
alternative methods of treatment, the choice of which depends primarily on the
expected extent of disability from surgery.
- External-beam radiation therapy with or without interstitial radiation therapy should be
considered postoperatively for larger lesions.
Small Lesions of the Lower Gingiva
Standard treatment options:
- Small lesions may be treated by intraoral resection with or without a rim
resection of bone and repaired with a split-thickness skin graft.
- Radiation therapy may be used for small lesions, but results are generally
better after surgery alone.
Small Tumors of the Retromolar Trigone
Standard treatment options:
- For early lesions without detectable bone invasion, limited resection of the
mandible is performed.
- If limited resection is not feasible, radiation therapy may be used
initially with surgery reserved for radiation failure.
Small Lesions of the Upper Gingiva and Hard Palate
Standard treatment options:
- Most lesions are treated by surgical resection with postoperative radiation
therapy as appropriate.
A small study showed that radiation therapy may be used effectively as the sole treatment modality.[3]
Current Clinical Trials
Check for U.S. clinical trials from NCI's PDQ Cancer Clinical Trials Registry that are now accepting patients with stage II lip and oral cavity cancer. The list of clinical trials can be further narrowed by location, drug, intervention, and other criteria.
General information about clinical trials is also available from the NCI Web site.
References
-
Harrison LB, Sessions RB, Hong WK, eds.: Head and Neck Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott-Raven, 1999.
-
Pernot M, Malissard L, Aletti P, et al.: Iridium-192 brachytherapy in the management of 147 T2N0 oral tongue carcinomas treated with irradiation alone: comparison of two treatment techniques. Radiother Oncol 23 (4): 223-8, 1992.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Yorozu A, Sykes AJ, Slevin NJ: Carcinoma of the hard palate treated with radiotherapy: a retrospective review of 31 cases. Oral Oncol 37 (6): 493-7, 2001.
[PUBMED Abstract]
Back to Top Stage III Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer
Note: Some citations in the text of this section are followed by a level of
evidence. The PDQ editorial boards use a formal ranking system to help the
reader judge the strength of evidence linked to the reported results of a
therapeutic strategy. (Refer to the PDQ summary on Levels of Evidence for more
information.)
Surgery and/or radiation therapy are used, depending on the exact tumor
site.[1,2] Neoadjuvant chemotherapy, as given in clinical trials, has been
used to shrink tumors and thereby render them more definitively treatable with
either surgery or radiation. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is given prior to the
other modalities, as opposed to standard adjuvant chemotherapy, which is given
after or during definitive therapy with radiation or after surgery. Many drug
combinations have been used as neoadjuvant chemotherapy.[3-6] Randomized prospective trials, however, have yet to demonstrate a benefit in either
disease-free or overall survival for patients receiving neoadjuvant
chemotherapy.[7]
Advanced Lesions of the Lip
These lesions, including those involving bone, nerves, and lymph nodes,
generally require a combination of surgery and radiation therapy. Such
patients are appropriate candidates for clinical trials.
Standard treatment options:
- Surgery: A variety of surgical approaches can be used depending on the size
and location of the lesion and the needs for reconstruction.
- Radiation therapy: A variety of radiation therapy techniques can be used as
dictated by the size and location of the lesion. Options include external-beam
radiation therapy (EBRT) with or without brachytherapy.
Treatment options under clinical evaluation:
- Clinical trials for advanced tumors evaluating the use of chemotherapy
preoperatively, before radiation therapy, as adjuvant therapy after surgery, or
as part of combined modality therapy are appropriate.[3-6,8-10]
- Superfractionated radiation therapy.[11]
Moderately Advanced (Late T2, Small T3) Lesions of the AnteriorTongue
Standard treatment options:
- Minimally infiltrative lesions may be treated with external-beam radiation therapy with or
without interstitial implant.
- Deeply infiltrative lesions may be treated with surgery with postoperative radiation
therapy.[2]
Advanced Lesions of the Buccal Mucosa
Standard treatment options:
- Radical surgical resection alone.
- Radiation therapy alone.
- Surgical resection plus radiation therapy, generally postoperative.
Treatment options under clinical evaluation:
- Clinical trials for advanced tumors evaluating the use of chemotherapy
preoperatively, before radiation therapy, as adjuvant therapy after surgery, or
as part of combined modality therapy are appropriate.[3-6,8-10,12]
Moderately Advanced Lesions of the Floor of the Mouth
Standard treatment options:
- Surgery: Rim resection plus neck dissection or partial mandibulectomy with
neck dissection as appropriate.
- Radiation therapy: EBRT alone or EBRT plus an interstitial implant.
Treatment options under clinical evaluation:
- Clinical trials for advanced tumors evaluating the use of chemotherapy
preoperatively, before radiation therapy, as adjuvant therapy after surgery, or
as part of combined modality therapy are appropriate.[3-6,8-10,12]
- Clinical trials using novel radiation therapy fractionation schemas.[13]
Moderately Advanced Lesions of the Lower Gingiva
Standard treatment options:
- Extensive lesions with moderate bone destruction and/or nodal metastases should
be treated by combined radiation therapy and radical resection or by radical
resection alone. Radiation therapy may be either preoperative or
postoperative.
Advanced Lesions of the Retromolar Trigone
Standard treatment options:
- Surgical composite resection that may be followed by postoperative radiation
therapy.
Treatment options under clinical evaluation:
- Clinical trials for advanced tumors evaluating the use of chemotherapy
preoperatively, before radiation therapy, as adjuvant therapy after surgery, or
as part of combined modality therapy are appropriate.[3-6,8-10,12]
- Clinical trials using novel radiation therapy fractionation schemas.[13]
Moderately Advanced Lesions of the Upper Gingiva
Standard treatment options:
- Superficial lesions with extensive involvement of the gingiva, hard palate,
or soft palate may be treated by radiation therapy alone.
- Deeply invasive lesions involving bone should be treated by a combination of
surgery and radiation therapy.
Moderately Advanced Lesions of the Hard Palate
Standard treatment options:
- Superficial lesions with extensive involvement of the gingiva, hard palate,
or soft palate may be treated by radiation therapy alone.
- Deeply invasive lesions involving bone should be treated by a combination of
surgery and radiation therapy or by surgery alone.
Treatment options for management of lymph nodes:[1]
- Patients with advanced lesions should have elective lymph node radiation
therapy or node dissection. The risk of metastases to lymph nodes is increased
by high-grade histology, large lesions, spread to involve the wet mucosa of the
lip or the buccal mucosa in patients with recurrent disease, and invasion of
muscle ( i.e., orbicularis oris).
Standard treatment options:
- Radiation therapy alone or neck dissection:
- N1 (0–2 cm).
- N2b or N3; all nodes smaller than 2 cm. (A combined surgical and
radiation therapy approach should also be considered.)
- Radiation therapy and neck dissection:
- Surgery followed by radiation therapy, indications for which are as follows:
- Multiple positive nodes.
- Contralateral subclinical metastases.
- Invasion of tumor through the capsule of the lymph node.
- N2b or N3 (one or more nodes in each neck, as appropriate, >2 cm).
- Radiation therapy prior to surgery:
Treatment options under clinical evaluation (all stage III lesions):
- Chemotherapy has been combined with radiation therapy in patients who have
locally advanced disease that is surgically unresectable.[8,10,14,15]
A meta-analysis of 63 randomized prospective trials published between 1965 and
1993 showed an 8% absolute survival advantage in the subset of patients
receiving concomitant chemotherapy and radiation therapy.[16][Level of
evidence: 2A] Patients receiving adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy had no
survival advantage. Cost, quality of life, and morbidity data were
not available; no standard regimen existed; and the trials were felt to be
too heterogenous to provide definitive recommendations. The results of 18
ongoing trials may further clarify the role of concomitant chemotherapy and
radiation therapy in the management of oral cavity cancer.
The best chemotherapy to use and the appropriate way to integrate the two
modalities is still unresolved.[17]
Similar approaches in the patient with resectable disease, in whom resection
would lead to a major functional deficit, are also being explored in randomized
trials but cannot be recommended at this time as standard.
Novel fractionation radiation therapy clinical trials are under clinical
evaluation.[13]
Current Clinical Trials
Check for U.S. clinical trials from NCI's PDQ Cancer Clinical Trials Registry that are now accepting patients with stage III lip and oral cavity cancer. The list of clinical trials can be further narrowed by location, drug, intervention, and other criteria.
General information about clinical trials is also available from the NCI Web site.
References
-
Harrison LB, Sessions RB, Hong WK, eds.: Head and Neck Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott-Raven, 1999.
-
Franceschi D, Gupta R, Spiro RH, et al.: Improved survival in the treatment of squamous carcinoma of the oral tongue. Am J Surg 166 (4): 360-5, 1993.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Ervin TJ, Clark JR, Weichselbaum RR, et al.: An analysis of induction and adjuvant chemotherapy in the multidisciplinary treatment of squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck. J Clin Oncol 5 (1): 10-20, 1987.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Al-Kourainy K, Kish J, Ensley J, et al.: Achievement of superior survival for histologically negative versus histologically positive clinically complete responders to cisplatin combination in patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer. Cancer 59 (2): 233-8, 1987.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Adjuvant chemotherapy for advanced head and neck squamous carcinoma. Final report of the Head and Neck Contracts Program. Cancer 60 (3): 301-11, 1987.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Ensley J, Crissman J, Kish J, et al.: The impact of conventional morphologic analysis on response rates and survival in patients with advanced head and neck cancers treated initially with cisplatin-containing combination chemotherapy. Cancer 57 (4): 711-7, 1986.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Mazeron JJ, Martin M, Brun B, et al.: Induction chemotherapy in head and neck cancer: results of a phase III trial. Head Neck 14 (2): 85-91, 1992 Mar-Apr.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Al-Sarraf M, Pajak TF, Marcial VA, et al.: Concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy with cisplatin in inoperable squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. An RTOG Study. Cancer 59 (2): 259-65, 1987.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Browman GP, Cripps C, Hodson DI, et al.: Placebo-controlled randomized trial of infusional fluorouracil during standard radiotherapy in locally advanced head and neck cancer. J Clin Oncol 12 (12): 2648-53, 1994.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Merlano M, Benasso M, Corvò R, et al.: Five-year update of a randomized trial of alternating radiotherapy and chemotherapy compared with radiotherapy alone in treatment of unresectable squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. J Natl Cancer Inst 88 (9): 583-9, 1996.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Johnson CR, Khandelwal SR, Schmidt-Ullrich RK, et al.: The influence of quantitative tumor volume measurements on local control in advanced head and neck cancer using concomitant boost accelerated superfractionated irradiation. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 32 (3): 635-41, 1995.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Licitra L, Grandi C, Guzzo M, et al.: Primary chemotherapy in resectable oral cavity squamous cell cancer: a randomized controlled trial. J Clin Oncol 21 (2): 327-33, 2003.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Stuschke M, Thames HD: Hyperfractionated radiotherapy of human tumors: overview of the randomized clinical trials. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 37 (2): 259-67, 1997.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Bachaud JM, David JM, Boussin G, et al.: Combined postoperative radiotherapy and weekly cisplatin infusion for locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: preliminary report of a randomized trial. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 20 (2): 243-6, 1991.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Merlano M, Corvo R, Margarino G, et al.: Combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy in advanced inoperable squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. The final report of a randomized trial. Cancer 67 (4): 915-21, 1991.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Pignon JP, Bourhis J, Domenge C, et al.: Chemotherapy added to locoregional treatment for head and neck squamous-cell carcinoma: three meta-analyses of updated individual data. MACH-NC Collaborative Group. Meta-Analysis of Chemotherapy on Head and Neck Cancer. Lancet 355 (9208): 949-55, 2000.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Taylor SG 4th, Murthy AK, Vannetzel JM, et al.: Randomized comparison of neoadjuvant cisplatin and fluorouracil infusion followed by radiation versus concomitant treatment in advanced head and neck cancer. J Clin Oncol 12 (2): 385-95, 1994.
[PUBMED Abstract]
Back to Top Stage IV Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer
Note: Some citations in the text of this section are followed by a level of
evidence. The PDQ editorial boards use a formal ranking system to help the
reader judge the strength of evidence linked to the reported results of a
therapeutic strategy. (Refer to the PDQ summary on Levels of Evidence for more
information.)
Randomized, prospective trials have yet to demonstrate a benefit in either
disease-free or overall survival for patients receiving neoadjuvant
chemotherapy.[1] The use of isotretinoin (13-cis-retinoic acid) daily for 1
year to prevent development of second upper aerodigestive tract primaries is
under clinical evaluation.[2]
Advanced Lesions of the Lip
These lesions, including those involving bone, nerves, and lymph nodes,
generally require a combination of surgery and radiation therapy. Such
patients are appropriate candidates for clinical trials.
Standard treatment options
:
- Surgery: A variety of surgical approaches can be used depending on the size
and location of the lesion and the need for reconstruction. Treatment of both
sides of the neck is indicated for selected patients.
- Radiation therapy: A variety of radiation therapy techniques can be used as
dictated by the size and location of the lesion. Options include external-beam
radiation therapy with or without brachytherapy.
Treatment options under clinical evaluation:
- Superfractionated radiation therapy.[3]
Advanced Lesions of the Anterior Tongue
Standard treatment options:
- Selected patients may be treated with combined surgery (i.e., total glossectomy, sometimes requiring
laryngectomy) that may be combined with postoperative radiation therapy.[4]
- Patients with very-advanced lesions may be treated with palliative radiation therapy.
Advanced Lesions of the Buccal Mucosa
Standard treatment options:
- Radical surgical resection alone.
- Radiation therapy alone.
- Surgical resection plus radiation therapy, generally postoperative.
Advanced Lesions of the Floor of the Mouth
Standard treatment options:
- A combination of surgery and radiation therapy, generally postoperative, is often used.
- For fixed nodes (≥5 cm) preoperative radiation therapy
is often used.
Advanced Lesions of the Lower Gingiva
Standard treatment options:
- Far-advanced tumors with extensive destruction of the mandible and with nodal
metastases are poorly controlled by surgery, radiation therapy, or a
combination of both.
Advanced Lesions of the Retromolar Trigone
Standard treatment options:
- Surgical composite resection followed by postoperative radiation therapy.
Advanced Lesions of the Upper Gingiva
Standard treatment options:
- Lesions that are extensive and infiltrating generally require treatment by
surgery in combination with radiation therapy.
Advanced Lesions of the Hard Palate
Standard treatment options:
- Lesions that are extensive and infiltrating generally require treatment by
surgery in combination with radiation therapy.
Treatment options for management of lymph nodes:[5]
Patients with advanced lesions should have elective lymph node radiation
therapy or node dissection. The risk of metastases to lymph nodes is increased
by high-grade histology, large lesions, spread involving the wet mucosa of the
lip or the buccal mucosa in patients with recurrent disease, and invasion of
muscle (orbicularis oris).
Standard treatment options:
- Radiation therapy alone or neck dissection:
- N1 (0–2 cm).
- N2b or N3; all nodes smaller than 2 cm. (A combined surgical and
radiation therapy approach should also be considered.)
- Radiation therapy and neck dissection:
- Surgery followed by radiation therapy is indicated for the following:
- Multiple positive nodes.
- Contralateral subclinical metastases.
- Invasion of tumor through the capsule of the lymph node.
- N2b or N3 (one or more nodes in each neck, as appropriate, >2 cm).
- Radiation therapy prior to surgery:
Treatment options under clinical evaluation (all stage IV lesions):
-
Chemotherapy has been combined with radiation therapy in patients who
have locally advanced disease that is surgically unresectable.[6-9]
A meta-analysis of 63 randomized prospective trials published between 1965 and
1993 showed an 8% absolute survival advantage in the subset of patients
receiving concomitant chemotherapy and radiation therapy.[10][Level of
evidence: 2A] Patients receiving adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy had no
survival advantage. Cost, quality of life, and morbidity data were
not available; no standard regimen existed; and the trials were felt to be
too heterogenous to provide definitive recommendations. The results of 18
ongoing trials may further clarify the role of concomitant chemotherapy and
radiation therapy in the management of oral cavity cancer.
The best chemotherapy to use and the appropriate way to integrate the two
modalities is still unresolved.[11]
Similar approaches in the patient with resectable disease, in whom resection
would lead to a major functional deficit, are also being explored in randomized
trials but cannot be recommended at this time as standard.
- Clinical trials for advanced tumors evaluating the use of chemotherapy
preoperatively, before radiation therapy, or as adjuvant therapy after surgery
are appropriate.[6,12-19]
- Novel fractionation radiation therapy clinical trials are under clinical
evaluation.[20]
Current Clinical Trials
Check for U.S. clinical trials from NCI's PDQ Cancer Clinical Trials Registry that are now accepting patients with stage IV lip and oral cavity cancer. The list of clinical trials can be further narrowed by location, drug, intervention, and other criteria.
General information about clinical trials is also available from the NCI Web site.
References
-
Mazeron JJ, Martin M, Brun B, et al.: Induction chemotherapy in head and neck cancer: results of a phase III trial. Head Neck 14 (2): 85-91, 1992 Mar-Apr.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Hong WK, Lippman SM, Itri LM, et al.: Prevention of second primary tumors with isotretinoin in squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck. N Engl J Med 323 (12): 795-801, 1990.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Johnson CR, Khandelwal SR, Schmidt-Ullrich RK, et al.: The influence of quantitative tumor volume measurements on local control in advanced head and neck cancer using concomitant boost accelerated superfractionated irradiation. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 32 (3): 635-41, 1995.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Franceschi D, Gupta R, Spiro RH, et al.: Improved survival in the treatment of squamous carcinoma of the oral tongue. Am J Surg 166 (4): 360-5, 1993.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Harrison LB, Sessions RB, Hong WK, eds.: Head and Neck Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott-Raven, 1999.
-
Al-Sarraf M, Pajak TF, Marcial VA, et al.: Concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy with cisplatin in inoperable squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. An RTOG Study. Cancer 59 (2): 259-65, 1987.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Bachaud JM, David JM, Boussin G, et al.: Combined postoperative radiotherapy and weekly cisplatin infusion for locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: preliminary report of a randomized trial. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 20 (2): 243-6, 1991.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Merlano M, Corvo R, Margarino G, et al.: Combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy in advanced inoperable squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. The final report of a randomized trial. Cancer 67 (4): 915-21, 1991.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Merlano M, Benasso M, Corvò R, et al.: Five-year update of a randomized trial of alternating radiotherapy and chemotherapy compared with radiotherapy alone in treatment of unresectable squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. J Natl Cancer Inst 88 (9): 583-9, 1996.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Pignon JP, Bourhis J, Domenge C, et al.: Chemotherapy added to locoregional treatment for head and neck squamous-cell carcinoma: three meta-analyses of updated individual data. MACH-NC Collaborative Group. Meta-Analysis of Chemotherapy on Head and Neck Cancer. Lancet 355 (9208): 949-55, 2000.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Taylor SG 4th, Murthy AK, Vannetzel JM, et al.: Randomized comparison of neoadjuvant cisplatin and fluorouracil infusion followed by radiation versus concomitant treatment in advanced head and neck cancer. J Clin Oncol 12 (2): 385-95, 1994.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Al-Kourainy K, Kish J, Ensley J, et al.: Achievement of superior survival for histologically negative versus histologically positive clinically complete responders to cisplatin combination in patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer. Cancer 59 (2): 233-8, 1987.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Adjuvant chemotherapy for advanced head and neck squamous carcinoma. Final report of the Head and Neck Contracts Program. Cancer 60 (3): 301-11, 1987.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Toohill RJ, Duncavage JA, Grossmam TW, et al.: The effects of delay in standard treatment due to induction chemotherapy in two randomized prospective studies. Laryngoscope 97 (4): 407-12, 1987.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Ensley J, Crissman J, Kish J, et al.: The impact of conventional morphologic analysis on response rates and survival in patients with advanced head and neck cancers treated initially with cisplatin-containing combination chemotherapy. Cancer 57 (4): 711-7, 1986.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Fu KK, Phillips TL, Silverberg IJ, et al.: Combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy with bleomycin and methotrexate for advanced inoperable head and neck cancer: update of a Northern California Oncology Group randomized trial. J Clin Oncol 5 (9): 1410-8, 1987.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Ryan RF, Krementz ET, Truesdale GL: Salvage of stage IV intraoral squamous cell carcinomas with preoperative 5-fluorouracil. Cancer 57 (4): 699-705, 1986.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Ervin TJ, Clark JR, Weichselbaum RR, et al.: An analysis of induction and adjuvant chemotherapy in the multidisciplinary treatment of squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck. J Clin Oncol 5 (1): 10-20, 1987.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Browman GP, Cripps C, Hodson DI, et al.: Placebo-controlled randomized trial of infusional fluorouracil during standard radiotherapy in locally advanced head and neck cancer. J Clin Oncol 12 (12): 2648-53, 1994.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Stuschke M, Thames HD: Hyperfractionated radiotherapy of human tumors: overview of the randomized clinical trials. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 37 (2): 259-67, 1997.
[PUBMED Abstract]
Back to Top Recurrent Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer
For lesions of the lip, anterior tongue, buccal mucosa, floor of mouth,
retromolar trigone, upper gingiva, and hard palate, treatment will be dictated
by the location and size of the recurrent lesion as well as prior
treatment.[1,2]
Standard treatment options:
- If radiation therapy was used initially, surgery is the preferred treatment.[3]
- If surgery was used to treat the lesion initially, surgery,[3] radiation
therapy, or a combination of these may be considered.
- Although chemotherapy has been shown to induce responses, no increase in
survival has been demonstrated.[4]
Treatment options under clinical evaluation:
- Because surgical salvage after primary treatment by radiation therapy and
radiation therapy after primary surgery give poor results, clinical trials
evaluating new chemotherapy drugs, chemotherapy and reirradiation, or
hyperthermia should be considered.[5,6]
Current Clinical Trials
Check for U.S. clinical trials from NCI's PDQ Cancer Clinical Trials Registry that are now accepting patients with recurrent lip and oral cavity cancer. The list of clinical trials can be further narrowed by location, drug, intervention, and other criteria.
General information about clinical trials is also available from the NCI Web site.
References
-
Harrison LB, Sessions RB, Hong WK, eds.: Head and Neck Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott-Raven, 1999.
-
Vikram B, Strong EW, Shah JP, et al.: Intraoperative radiotherapy in patients with recurrent head and neck cancer. Am J Surg 150 (4): 485-7, 1985.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Wong LY, Wei WI, Lam LK, et al.: Salvage of recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma after primary curative surgery. Head Neck 25 (11): 953-9, 2003.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Jacobs C, Lyman G, Velez-García E, et al.: A phase III randomized study comparing cisplatin and fluorouracil as single agents and in combination for advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. J Clin Oncol 10 (2): 257-63, 1992.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Hong WK, Bromer R: Chemotherapy in head and neck cancer. N Engl J Med 308 (2): 75-9, 1983.
[PUBMED Abstract]
-
Vokes EE, Athanasiadis I: Chemotherapy of squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck: the future is now. Ann Oncol 7 (1): 15-29, 1996.
[PUBMED Abstract]
Back to Top Get More Information From NCI
Call 1-800-4-CANCER
For more information, U.S. residents may call the National Cancer Institute's (NCI's) Cancer Information Service toll-free at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Deaf and hard-of-hearing callers with TTY equipment may call 1-800-332-8615. The call is free and a trained Cancer Information Specialist is available to answer your questions.
Chat online
The NCI's LiveHelp® online chat service provides Internet users with the ability to chat online with an Information Specialist. The service is available from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday. Information Specialists can help Internet users find information on NCI Web sites and answer questions about cancer.
Write to us
For more information from the NCI, please write to this address:
- NCI Public Inquiries Office
- Suite 3036A
- 6116 Executive Boulevard, MSC8322
- Bethesda, MD 20892-8322
Search the NCI Web site
The NCI Web site provides online access to information on cancer, clinical trials, and other Web sites and organizations that offer support and resources for cancer patients and their families. For a quick search, use our “Best Bets” search box in the upper right hand corner of each Web page. The results that are most closely related to your search term will be listed as Best Bets at the top of the list of search results.
There are also many other places to get materials and information about cancer treatment and services. Hospitals in your area may have information about local and regional agencies that have information on finances, getting to and from treatment, receiving care at home, and dealing with problems related to cancer treatment.
Find Publications
The NCI has booklets and other materials for patients, health professionals, and the public. These publications discuss types of cancer, methods of cancer treatment, coping with cancer, and clinical trials. Some publications provide information on tests for cancer, cancer causes and prevention, cancer statistics, and NCI research activities. NCI materials on these and other topics may be ordered online or printed directly from the NCI Publications Locator. These materials can also be ordered by telephone from the Cancer Information Service toll-free at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237), TTY at 1-800-332-8615.
Back to Top Changes to This Summary (05/22/2008)
The PDQ cancer information summaries are reviewed regularly and updated as
new information becomes available. This section describes the latest
changes made to this summary as of the date above.
Editorial changes were made to this summary.
Back to Top More Information
About PDQ
Additional PDQ Summaries
Important:
This information is intended mainly for use by doctors and other health care professionals. If you have questions about this topic, you can ask your doctor, or call the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).
Back to Top |