Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Clinical Study

Background and Objectives: Squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue (SCCOT) is the most common malignant neoplasm in oral cavity. At the time of the diagnosis of SCCOT regional metastases with a high mortality rate are common, which is due to the extensive lymphatic system drainage of the tongue. Although the level of healthcare has significantly improved, the survival rate is still low with an unsatisfactory cure rate. The present study was designed to establish a clinical review on adults with SCCOT and to determine whether the rate of SCCOT has been changed over the 20-year. Methods: A cohort of 102 patients was recruited for this retrospective study. The study was carried out by reviewing the medical reports and case notes of patients with histologically confirmed SCCOT. Results: The peak incidence was observed between 60 and 70 years. Stage I disease was found in 24, stage II in 64, stage III in 10 and stage IV in four patients. Seventy-three patients were treated with combined therapy; surgery and radiation, whereas, 29 patients received only surgery. The overall 5-year survival was 60%. Thirty patients developed tumor recurrence including 12 local, 12 nodal, four locoregional, and two distant. Thirty-four patients died during the follow-up period, six with persistent disease, and 62 remained cancer free, giving a mortality and morbidity rate of 39%. Conclusion: This study recommends aggressive early treatment of patients with SCCOT including resection of the primary tumor with a safe margin (1.5cm) in addition to an appropriate neck dissection.