Non-hematological tumors of head and neck region in the pediatric age group in a tertiary care cancer center

Abstract

Purpose: To analyze the clinical profile, management and outcome of non-hematological tumors in head and neck region in children less than 18 years of age.

Patients and methods: Medical records of patients (0-18 years) presenting with non-hematological tumors of head and neck region from 2000 to 2010 were reviewed.

Result: Out of the 78 patients identified, 50 were males with median age of 14 years (3 months to 18 years). Histologically, 58 out of the 78 patients had malignant tumors and 20 were metastatic at presentation. Common site of tumor origin was noted as thyroid (23/78), salivary glands (21/78) and nasopharynx (13/78). Out of 78 patients, 44 patients were treated by surgery, 26 patients received radiation and 13 patients received chemotherapy, while 9 patients received radio-iodine (I-131) treatment. Median follow up of all cases was 22 months (range 1 month to 8 years). The event free survival was 74.1% and overall survival was 89.6%. Subset analysis revealed patients with thyroid and salivary gland malignancies have excellent survival, while those with squamous cell carcinoma and high risk neuroblastoma had poor outcome.

Conclusion: This study reveals the interesting profile of head and neck tumors in children, and important role of surgery for favorable outcome.