Role of routine panendoscopy in cancer of the upper aerodigestive tract

Panendoscopy for Head and Neck Cancers: Detection of Synchronous Second Primary Cancers, Complications and Cost-Benefit Analysis: A Systematic Review

IMPORTANCE

In patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), the discovery of a second synchronous primary cancer of the aerodigestive tract (SSPCA) significantly impacts management and prognosis. Recent advances in imaging have increasingly allowed for identifying SSPCA before performing panendoscopy, raising questions about the latter's role.

OBJECTIVE

To establish the incidence of SSPCA and panendoscopy's impact on management. Complications and costs associated with panendoscopy were also assessed.

DESIGN

Systematic review following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis guidelines.

SETTING

Operating room panendoscopy.

PARTICIPANTS

Identifiable HNSCC undergoing initial staging workup.

INTERVENTION

Panendoscopy under general anesthesia for SSPCA detection.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Incidence of SSPCA in HNSCC, change in management caused by panendoscopy, incidence of panendoscopy complications, costs for panendoscopy.

RESULTS

51 studies were included (n = 19,914 patients). SSPCA was present in 6.4% (n = 467/7262) of all panendoscopies. Among patients who had a prior computed tomography (CT) of the neck and chest, a change in management resulting from SSPCA detected through panendoscopy occurred in only 1.1% of cases (n = 3/268), and in 0% of cases for those who had a positron-emission tomography-computed tomography (PET) (n = 0/544). The rate of major complications of panendoscopy was 0.7% (n = 58/8386). Only two recent studies in a private healthcare system reported panendoscopy costs ranging from $3802 USD to $17,296 USD.

CONCLUSIONS

The role of panendoscopy in the initial workup of HNSCC should be limited to confirming suspicious findings from initial CT or PET. The incidence of major complications for panendoscopy is low but carries a significant financial burden for patients in the private American healthcare system. More studies are needed to assess the cost-effectiveness of panendoscopies for SSPCA detection in a public healthcare system.

RELEVANCE

Confirms the lack of benefit for systematic panendoscopy for SSPCA detection in HNSCC patients when initial workup includes a CT of the neck and chest or PET.

Efficacy of 18FDG-PET/CT in Detecting Synchronous Malignancies in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography and computed tomography (18FDG-PET/CT) in detecting second primary malignancies (SPMs) in patients with treatment naïve head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

DATA SOURCES

Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus searched from 1946 to December 2022.

REVIEW METHODS

Studies reporting the performance of 18FDG-PET/CT in patients with treatment-naïve, index HNSCC for detection of SPMs were included. The reference standard was histopathology, clinical follow-up over the duration of study, and other imaging modalities. Multiple investigators completed depth full-text analysis. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines were followed. Methodologic and diagnostic accuracy data were abstracted independently by multiple investigators. Risk of bias assessment was conducted using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool independently. Bivariate random-effects model meta-analysis and multivariable meta-regression modeling were used.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies examining 4624 patients with a total of 475 SPMs were included in the final analysis. Eleven studies were found to be at low risk for bias, while the rest were in the high-risk category. 18FDG-PET/CT demonstrated pooled sensitivity and specificity of 0.73 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.49-0.88) and 0.99 (95% CI: 0.98-1.00) in detecting SPMs. Further subsite analysis revealed varied diagnostic performance across different anatomical regions, with sensitivity and specificity of esophageal SPMs being 0.47 (0.30-0.64) and 0.99 (0.98-1.00), and sensitivity and specificity of 0.86 (0.73-0.94) and 0.99 (0.98-1.00) for head and neck SPMs. Finally, this imaging modality showed sensitivity and specificity of 0.92 (0.84-0.96) and 0.99 (0.98-1.00) for lung SPMs.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study suggest varied accuracy of 18FDG-PET/CT in detecting SPMs during initial workup for HNSCC, highlighting the importance of screening modalities such as esophagoscopy in high-risk patients.

High Frequency Jet Ventilation or Mechanical Ventilation for Panendoscopy for Cervicofacial Cancer: A Retrospective Study

Introduction-the upper airway panendoscopy, performed under general anesthesia, is mandatory for the diagnosis of cervicofacial cancer. It is a challenging procedure because the anesthesiologist and the surgeon have to share the airway space together. There is no consensus about the ventilation strategy to adopt. Transtracheal high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) is the traditional method in our institution. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced us to change our practices because HFJV is a high risk for viral dissemination. Tracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation were recommended for all patients. Our retrospective study compares the two ventilation strategies for panendoscopy: high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) and mechanical ventilation with orotracheal intubation (MVOI). Methods-we reviewed all panendoscopies performed before the pandemic in January and February 2020 (HFJV) and during the pandemic in April and May 2020 (MVOI). Minor patients, patients with a tracheotomy before or after, were excluded. We performed a multivariate analysis adjusted on unbalanced parameters between the two groups to compare the risk of desaturation. Results-we included 182 patients: 81 patients in the HFJV group and 80 in the MVOI group. After adjustments based on BMI, tumor localization, history of cervicofacial cancer surgery, and use of muscle relaxants, the patients from the HFJV group showed significantly less desaturation than the intubation group (9.9% vs. 17.5%, OR_a = 0.18, p = 0.047). Conclusion-HFJV limited the incidence of desaturation during upper airway panendoscopies in comparison to oral intubation.

Diagnostic accuracy of in vivo early tumor imaging from probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy versus histologic examination in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

Probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) is a noninvasive and real-time imaging technique allowing acquisition of in situ images of the tissue microarchitecture during oral surgery. We aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of pCLE combined with patent blue V (PB) in improving the management of early oral cavity, oro/hypopharyngeal, and laryngeal cancer by imaging squamous cell carcinoma in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The prospective study enrolled 44 patients with early head and neck lesions. All patients underwent white-light inspection or panendoscopy depending on the lesion's location, followed by pCLE imaging of the tumor core and its margins after topical application of PB. Each zone imaged by pCLE was interpreted at distance of the exam by three pathologists blinded to final histology.

RESULTS

Most imaged zones could be presented to pathologists; the final sensitivity and specificity of pCLE imaging in head and neck cancers was 73.2-75% and 30-57.4%, respectively. During imaging, head and neck surgeons encountered some challenges that required resolving, such as accessing lesions with the flexible optical probe, achieving sufficiently precise imaging on the targeted tissues, and heterogeneous tissue staining by fluorescent dye.

CONCLUSION

Final sensitivity scores were reasonable but final specificity scores were low. pCLE zones used to calculate specificity were acquired in areas of tumor margins, and the poor quality of the images acquired in these areas explains the final low specificity scores.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Practical adjustments and technical training are needed to analyze head and neck lesions in various anatomical sites in real-time by pCLE.

[Current diagnostic imaging and treatment planning for laryngeal cancer]

CLINICAL/METHODICAL ISSUE

Laryngeal cancer is the third most common malignancy in the head and neck region. Endoscopic laryngoscopy with assessment of vocal fold function, microlaryngoscopy with biopsy and computed tomography (CT)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) remain the cornerstones of diagnostic workup. Thus, in the context of therapy planning, consideration of individual functional and socioeconomic aspects is of major importance.

STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL METHODS

Due to the short acquisition time and the possibility to perform functional maneuvers, CT is the tool of choice. MRI allows better soft tissue differentiation, but is more susceptible to movement artifacts and is complicated by disease-specific symptoms. The choice of examination method therefore depends on the patient's physical resilience.

PERFORMANCE

Depending on the study, the information on the sensitivity of CT with regard to the question of cartilage infiltration varies between 62 and 87% with a specificity between 75 and 98%. For MRI, sensitivity between 64 and 95% and specificity between 56 and 88% are stated.

ACHIEVEMENTS

The synthesis of the findings from endoscopy, biopsy and imaging is prerequisite for initiation of stage-appropriate treatment. For image interpretation, knowledge of the anatomical landmarks is essential. However, the assessment of posttherapeutic changes also poses a challenge for the radiologist.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Regular interdisciplinary dialogue between radiologists, otorhinolaryngologists and radiotherapists in the context of primary diagnostics, therapy planning and aftercare is essential.

Value of oesophagoscopy and bronchoscopy in diagnosis of synchronous malignancies in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas

Background

Routine screening of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) for synchronous malignancies using oesophagoscopy and bronchoscopy had been controversial. The aim of this study is therefore to find out the rate of synchronous malignancies in patients with primary HNSCCs, the risk factors for its occurrence and the effectiveness of oesophagoscopy and bronchoscopy from a 10-year experience in a single centre.

Methods

A retrospective review of medical records was conducted from July 2008 to June 2018 in a tertiary referral centre in Hong Kong. All patients with newly diagnosed HNSCCs were screened with oesophagoscopy and bronchoscopy at the time of diagnosis and therefore all patients were included in the study. The incidence of synchronous malignancies along the aerodigestive tract and the yield of oesophagoscopy and bronchoscopy were studied.

Results

Of the 702 patients included in the study, the overall rate of synchronous malignancies was 8.3% (58/702), with the rate of synchronous oesophageal and lung malignancies being 5.8% (41/702) and 0.85% (6/702) respectively. Fourteen out of the 41 oesophageal malignancies were only detectable with oesophagoscopy. Only one of the synchronous lung malignancies was detectable by bronchoscopy. Risk factors for synchronous malignancies include male gender, smokers, drinkers and primary hypopharyngeal cancer.

Conclusions

Oesophagoscopy is essential for detecting synchronous oesophageal malignancies in patients with HNSCCs especially in male patients, smokers and drinkers, and it is most valuable in primary hypopharyngeal cancer patients among all primary subsites. Bronchoscopy had a low yield for synchronous lung malignancies and can be potentially replaced by imaging techniques.

PET/CT in Surgical Planning for Head and Neck Cancer

Fluorine-18 (¹⁸F)-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography fused with computed tomography (PET/CT) is a valuable tool in surgical planning for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). If performed prior to biopsy or other surgical intervention, FDG-PET/CT has high sensitivity for the detection of the primary site in patients with cervical lymph node metastases from unknown primary origin and can be used to direct the surgical workup. FDG-PET/CT is superior to CT alone for detection of nodal metastases outside the expected pattern or distant metastases or second primary cancers and can greatly affect determination of appropriate management including surgical eligibility. Prior to the advent of PET/CT, many patients undergoing (chemo)radiation-based therapy had planned post-treatment neck dissection; FDG-PET/CT now has a proven role in the evaluation of recurrent or persistent disease amenable to salvage surgery and enables safe avoidance of planned postradiation neck dissection with a high negative predictive value. Specifically for this important application, two standardized reporting metrics may be used in the head and neck anatomic region: the "Hopkins criteria" and the "Neck Imaging Reporting and Data System"; both systems produce a formalized evaluation and recommendation based on PET/CT findings. The role of PET/CT as a replacement for elective neck dissection or examination under anesthesia remains controversial but deserves further study. FDG-PET/CT has a wide-ranging impact on the surgical management of patients with HNSCC and should be used routinely in patients with unknown primary nodal disease and those presenting with advanced-stage cancers at initial staging and to assess treatment response.

The Utility of Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Examination Versus Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography in the Detection of Second Primary Lesions in Korean Patients With Head and Neck Cancer

OBJECTIVE

Head and neck cancer often accompany a synchronous secondary primary lesion in the digestive tract. The aim of this study was to compare detection rates between positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (G-fiber) or colonoscopy (C-fiber) in the initial staging and to analyze risk factors for premalignant, malignant, and total synchronous secondary primary lesions.

METHODS

A total of 739 patients with head and neck cancer who underwent PET-CT, G-fiber, or C-fiber were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Positron emission tomography-CT did not definitely detect any premalignant synchronous secondary primary lesions (0 [0%] of 739) but definitely detected 10 malignant synchronous secondary primary lesions (10 [1.35%] of 739). Esophagogastroduodenoscopy or C-fiber detected all 20 premalignant synchronous secondary primary lesions (20 [2.71%] of 739) and all 37 malignant synchronous secondary primary lesions (37 [5.00%] of 739). The patients with nasopharynx cancer tended to have premalignant synchronous secondary primary lesions (odds ratio [OR]: 3.793; 95% CI: 1.414-10.171; P = .008). Those with distant metastasis tended to have premalignant (OR: 4.743; 95% CI: 1.508-14.916; P = .009), malignant (OR: 3.803; 95% CI: 1.486-9.731; P = .005), and total synchronous secondary primary lesions (OR: 2.753; 95% CI: 1.159-6.538; P = .022).

CONCLUSIONS

Premalignant or malignant synchronous secondary primary lesions that were not definitely detected by PET-CT could be found in the endoscopic examination.

[Evaluation of oesophagoscopy for staging and restaging of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

Oesophagoscopy is important in diagnostic and follow up investigation in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Second primary malignancies of the oesophagus have major impact on therapy of the primary tumour. Considering the low incidence of oesophageal second primaries and the serious complication of oesophageal perforation routine oesophagoscopy is being discussed.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Incidence of oesophageal second primaries and complication rates in oesophagoscopy were identified in a systematic review. A retrospective analysis was performed in our own patient collective. To evaluate the current practice at German ENT Clinics a survey was conducted.

RESULTS

1053 oesophagoscopies in 800 patients were analysed. In 800 patients seven (0.9 %) synchronous secondary malignancies of the oesophagus occurred. In 253 follow up oesophagoscopies five (2 %) metachronous secondary malignancies were discovered. 14 (1.3 %) complications were detected; oesophageal perforation was only detected in one case (0.1 %). There was no association of certain risk factors with the incidence of secondary malignancies. The review of literature showed an incidence of secondary malignancies for Europe/USA of 1.8 % and for Asia of 4.1 %. Incidence of oesophageal perforation was 0-0.2 %. Survey results showed routine oesophagoscopy in staging (100 %) and regularly in follow up (65.3 %).

CONCLUSIONS

Oesophagoscopy is a convenient method to detect secondary malignancies of the oesophagus. To allow a selection of patients developing secondary malignancies according to risk profiles further prospective multicentre studies are required.

Is panendoscopy a necessary staging procedure in patients with lacking risk factors and oral squamous cell carcinoma?

OBJECTIVES

Routine panendoscopy is used to detect synchronous malignancies of the upper aerodigestive tract in staging of oral squamous cell carcinoma. The goal of this study was to investigate the occurrence of synchronous malignancies at time of diagnosis using panendoscopy. To challenge the role of panendoscopy as inherent part of routine staging procedures, we were especially interested in low risk patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospectively, a cohort of 484 patients with pathologically confirmed diagnosis of primary oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma was investigated. Electronically recorded findings of in-house conducted panendoscopy were retrieved and evaluated for the occurrence of pathological changes of the mucosa. In case of synchronous malignancies, findings were correlated to preoperative radiographic imaging. Patients were classified as high or low risk. Patients with lacking risk factors (no smoking, no drinking in history) were defined as low risk patients.

RESULTS

Overall, we detected three synchronous malignancies of the upper aerodigestive tract (3/484; 0.6%). Two non-small cell lung cancers were detected in patients with a smoking history of 60 pack years. One esophageal carcinoma in situ was detected in a patient with reported alcohol consumption. No synchronous malignancy was detected in patients without risk factors and no malignancy was previously detected by diagnostic imaging.

CONCLUSION

Pre-treatment panendoscopy can reveal synchronous malignancies of the upper aerodigestive tract in patients with primary oral squamous cell carcinoma. Risk stratification of patients can avoid unnecessarily conducted panendoscopy in patients without risk factors. This may lead to a higher cost-efficacy in public health system, less treatment-related complications and earlier treatment initiation.

The risk of second primary tumors in head and neck cancer: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Second primary tumors (SPTs) are a common cause of reduced life expectancy in patients treated for head and neck cancer (HNC). This phenomenon forms an area to be addressed during posttreatment follow-up.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of literature following PRISMA guidelines, from 1979 to 2019, to investigate incidence of SPTs, synchronous, and metachronous, in HNC population.

RESULTS

Our review includes data of 456 130 patients from 61 articles. With a minimum follow-up of 22 months, mean incidence of SPTs was 13.2% (95% CI: 11.56-14.84): 5.3% (95% CI: 4.24-6.36) for synchronous SPTs and 9.4% (95% CI: 7.9-10.9) for metachronous SPTs. The most frequent site for SPTs was head and neck area, followed by the lungs and esophagus.

CONCLUSION

Although with wide variations between studies, the rate of SPTs in HNC patients is high. Given the impact in the prognosis, we must develop strategies for the early diagnosis of SPTs.

Korean Society of Thyroid-Head and Neck Surgery Guideline Task Force, Joo YH, Cho JK, Koo BS, Kwon M, Kwon SK, Kwon SY, Kim MS, Kim JK, Kim H, Nam I, Roh JL, Park YM, Park IS, Park JJ, Shin SC, Ahn SH, Won S, Ryu CH, Yoon TM, Lee G, Lee DY, Lee MC, Lee JK, Lee JC, Lim JY, Chang JW, Jang JY, Chung MK, Jung YS, Cho JG, Choi YS, Choi JS, Lee GH, Chung PS. Guidelines for the Surgical Management of Oral Cancer: Korean Society of Thyroid-Head and Neck Surgery

Korean Society of Thyroid-Head and Neck Surgery appointed a Task Force to provide guidance on the implementation of a surgical treatment of oral cancer. MEDLINE databases were searched for articles on subjects related to "surgical management of oral cancer" published in English. Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized control trials/controlled clinical trials, and observational studies. The quality of evidence was rated with use RoBANS (Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Nonrandomized Studies) and AMSTAR (A Measurement Tool to Assess the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews). Evidence-based recommendations for practice were ranked according to the American College of Physicians grading system. Additional directives are provided as expert opinions and Delphi questionnaire when insufficient evidence existed. The Committee developed 68 evidence-based recommendations in 34 categories intended to assist clinicians and patients and counselors, and health policy-makers. Proper surgical treatment selection for oral cancer, which is directed by patient- and subsite-specific factors, remains the greatest predictor of successful treatment outcomes. These guidelines are intended for use in conjunction with the individual patient's treatment goals.

Early detection of esophageal second primary tumors using Lugol chromoendoscopy in patients with head and neck cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Early detection of esophageal secondary primary tumors (SPTs) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients could increase patient survival. The purpose of this study was to determine the diagnostic yield of esophageal SPTs using Lugol chromoendoscopy.

Methods

A systematic review of all available databases was performed to find all Lugol chromoendoscopy screening studies.

Results

Fifteen studies with a total of 3386 patients were included. The average yield of esophageal‐SPTs in patients with HNSCC was 15%. The prevalence was the highest for patients with an index hypopharyngeal (28%) or oropharyngeal (14%) tumor. The esophageal‐SPTs were classified as high‐grade dysplasia in 49% of the cases and as invasive carcinoma's in 51%.

Conclusion

Our results show that 15% of the patients with HNSCC that underwent Lugol chromoendoscopy were diagnosed with an esophageal‐SPT. Based on these results there is enough evidence to perform Lugol chromoendoscopy, especially in an Asian patient population.

Reviewing indications for panendoscopy in the investigation of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The role of panendoscopy in the modern investigation of head and neck cancer is changing with the development of improved radiological techniques, in-office biopsy capabilities and the low rate of synchronous primary tumours. This study aimed to review the indications for panendoscopy in the investigation of newly diagnosed head and neck cancer.

METHOD

A retrospective review was conducted of 186 patients with newly diagnosed head and neck cancer, between January 2014 and December 2015, at two tertiary centres.

RESULTS

Obtaining a tissue diagnosis was the most common indication for panendoscopy (65 per cent), followed by surgical planning including transoral robotic surgery suitability assessment (22.6 per cent), and the investigation of carcinoma of an unknown primary (11.3 per cent). Two synchronous primary tumours were identified, generating a yield of 1.1 per cent.

CONCLUSION

Panendoscopy remains integral in the assessment of transoral robotic surgery suitability. Refining indications for modern panendoscopy could reduce the need for this procedure in this cohort of patients.

Long-Term Results of Conventional Radiotherapy versus Accelerated Hyperfractionated Radiotherapy versus Concomitant Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy in Locoregionally Advanced Carcinoma of the Oropharynx

AIMS AND BACKGROUND

To compare conventional fractionation (CF) radiation therapy (RT), arm A, versus a split-course accelerated hyperfractionated schedule (S-AHF), arm B, versus CFRT plus concomitant chemotherapy (CT), arm C, in terms of five-year survival and toxicity for squamous cell tumors of the oropharynx.

METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN

Between January 1993 and June 1998, 192 previously untreated patients with stage III and IV oropharyngeal carcinoma (excluding T1N1 and T2N1) were enrolled in a multicenter randomized phase III trial (ORO 93-01). In arms A and C, 66 to 70 Gy in 33 to 35 fractions was administered five days a week for six and a half to seven weeks. In arm B, the dose delivered was 64 to 67.2 Gy in two fractions of 1.6 Gy every day, five days a week, with a planned two-week split at 38.4 Gy. In arm C the CT regimen consisted of three cycles of carboplatin and 5-fluorouracil (CBDCA 75 mg/m2 on days 1 to 4 and 5-FU 1000 mg/m2 i.v. on days 1 to 4 every 28 days).

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference was found in five-year overall survival (P = 0.39): 21% for arm A, 21% for arm B, and 40% for arm C. Similarly, there was no statistically significant difference in terms of five-year relapse-free survival: 15% for arm A, 17% for arm B, and 36% for arm C. There was a slight trend towards better five-year locoregional control (P = 0.07) for the combined arm: patients without locoregional relapse were 48% in arm C, 21% in arm A and 18% in arm B. Locoregional control was significantly better when arm C was compared with arms A and B combined (P = 0.02; arm A+B 20%; arm C 48%). Distant metastases were fairly balanced in the three arms (A: 14; B: 9; C: 11), with a tendency towards more frequent isolated distant metastasis development in arm C (8 of 11 [72%] versus 7 of 23 [30%] in arms A+B). Five-year second-tumor-free survival was 85%. The 13 second tumors were equally distributed and were mainly correlated with tobacco and alcohol consumption (five lung, two esophagus, two oral cavity, one larynx, one pancreas, one hepatocarcinoma, one myeloma). Arm C showed slightly more G3+ late side effects involving subcutaneous tissues and mucosa, although significant late sequelae were relatively uncommon and the mucosal side effects were mostly transient. The occurrence of persistent G3 xerostomia was comparable in the three treatment arms.

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained with the combination of CT and RT compared with RT alone did not reach statistical significance, but combined treatment almost doubled the five-year overall survival, relapse-free survival and locoregional control rate. Patients with advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the oropharynx who are medically suitable for the combined approach should be treated with a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The occurrence of second tumors is relatively common in these patients and may contribute substantially to the causes of death.

Chapter 3 The Role of PET/CT in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is an important cause of cancer morbidity worldwide and has been stratified into human papillomavirus-related and human papillomavirus-unrelated subgroups that affect prognosis and now staging. Conventional anatomical imaging methods are suboptimal for the detection of regional and distant metastases that are important prognosticators associated with poor outcomes. Functional imaging with (F18)-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is a useful tool in the management of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, providing complementary physiological and anatomical information. In this article, optimal PET/CT technique will be reviewed and the pretreatment and posttreatment applications of PET/CT will be described. A simplified approach to imaging interpretation, including review of pearls and pitfalls will be discussed. An initial framework for follow-up evaluation will be provided.

NBI utility in the pre-operative and intra-operative assessment of oral cavity and oropharyngeal carcinoma

PURPOSE

Despite advances in the surgical management of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, the identification of synchronous lesions, precancerous lesions around the main tumor, or the unknown primary in the case of neck metastasis remains a problem, as these lesions may be invisible to the naked eye or with standard white light (WL) endoscopy. However, the advent of tools such as narrow-band imaging (NBI) could help the clinician. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of NBI during the pre-operative and intra-operative stages of management of oral and oropharyngeal cancers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

NBI was used pre-operatively in 47 patients with oral or oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma to identify the involvement of adjacent subsites, multifocality, synchronous lesions or an unknown primary. NBI was used intra-operatively in 30 patients to better define the tumor limits and guide the resection. The advantage of NBI versus WL endoscopy was analyzed by calculating the true and false positive rate pre-operatively, and the need for resection enlargements, histology of the enlargement, and the rate of clear margins at definitive histology, intra-operatively.

RESULTS

Pre-operatively, the diagnostic gain of NBI was 8.5%, allowing identification of three synchronous tumors and one unknown primary. Intra-operatively, NBI improved the definition of tumor limits in 67.7% of cases, with resection enlargements showing dysplasia and carcinoma in 8 and 12 patients, respectively; we obtained 74.2% negative margins at histology.

CONCLUSIONS

NBI could represent an added value in the pre-operative and intra-operative assessment of oral cavity and oropharyngeal carcinoma.

Bronchoscopy in panendoscopy: review and assessment

OBJECTIVE

To determine the utility of bronchoscopy to identify synchronous primaries in head and neck cancer patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review.

METHOD

The charts of all patients undergoing bronchoscopy between January 2008 and December 2013 were reviewed. Only those undergoing bronchoscopy as part of panendoscopy for head and neck cancer were included. Operative reports, pathology reports and discharge summaries were reviewed for operative findings, complications and length of hospital stay.

RESULTS

A total of 404 charts were reviewed and 168 were included in the study. No synchronous primaries were identified. Bronchoscopy changed clinical management in one patient. There were no complications from bronchoscopy.

CONCLUSION

Bronchoscopy is a safe and well-tolerated procedure commonly performed in the investigation of head and neck cancer patients, but it adds little additional useful clinical information. Routine performance of bronchoscopy in this setting should be weighed against its added costs, and tailored to the individual patient.

A role for panendoscopy? Second primary tumour in early stage squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue

BACKGROUND

Panendoscopy is routinely used for the identification of occult second primary tumours in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. However, its role in low risk subgroups, particularly non-smoking, non-drinking patients and patients presenting with early stage oral cavity lesions, is debatable.

METHODS

The records of 112 patients with T₁ or T₂ oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic, disease characteristics and survival data were collected.

RESULTS

Average follow-up duration was 71.7 months (range, 3.6-238.3 months). Thirty-five patients died within this period. Thirteen second primary events were identified in 11 patients, with all but 2 tumours in the oral cavity or oropharynx. There was a single synchronous primary - a lung adenocarcinoma; all other events were metachronous. No non-smoking, non-drinking patients re-presented with a second primary tumour; tobacco and alcohol use are clearly risk factors for development of a second primary tumour.

CONCLUSION

The role of panendoscopy for identifying synchronous primary tumours in patients with early stage oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma should be re-evaluated, particularly in non-smoking, non-drinking patients who are at low risk of second primary development. Close follow up with regular clinical examination including flexible fibre-optic endoscopy may be sufficient in this subgroup.

Incidence of second primary malignancies in patients with treated head and neck cancer: a comprehensive review of literature

BACKGROUND

Increased incidence of a second primary aero-digestive malignancy after an index head and neck cancer (HNC) is well-documented. Furthermore, a clear set of surveillance strategies for second primary aero-digestive cancers in these patients exists.

METHODS

The goal of this article is to review the published literature on risk of second primary malignancies (SPMs) (including aero-digestive malignancies) after a treated index HNC as well as its associated predictors, prognosis and surveillance. Most relevant publications were identified through searching the PubMed database for articles published up to July 2012; epidemiologic evidence was synthesized and thoroughly analyzed.

FINDINGS

Data from randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, population-based and cohort group studies, prior reviews, and case reports indicate an increased incidence of various SPMs after occurrence of a HNC. These cancers are not limited to upper aero-digestive sites. Common risk factors including environmental, genetic and immune factors may explain the increased incidence of second cancers in this patient population. In addition, site of the index HNC may predict the site of a future SPM.

CONCLUSIONS

As a general rule, oral cavity and oropharyngeal squamous cell cancers are associated more with head and neck region SPM, while laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers - with that of the lung. As these cancers confer dismal prognosis and shorter survival in patients with HNCs, several literature sources recommend close surveillance for and an aggressive therapy of SPM. Notwithstanding, their optimal management and follow-up schedule remains to be established.

High specificity of combined narrow band imaging and autofluorescence mucosal assessment of patients with head and neck cancer

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate combined autofluorescence (AF) and narrow band imaging (NBI) for detection of mucosal lesions additional to known primary head and neck cancers and to determine impact on management.

METHODS

Patients with head and neck cancer requiring preoperative screening or posttreatment surveillance had white light (WL), AF and NBI inspection of the head and neck and bronchus. Known primary cancers were not analyzed, only additional lesions. Moderate dysplasia or worse was considered significant.

RESULTS

In all, 73 patients were recruited. Respectively, there were 24 and 18 additional lesions in the head and neck and bronchus that had significant histopathology. In both regions, AF and NBI were more sensitive than WL for detecting significant dysplasia with NBI demonstrating better specificity than AF (p = .003); 11 of 73 patients (15.1%) had additional findings detected by AF and NBI, which had an impact on management.

CONCLUSION

Combined AF and NBI inspection is highly specific at panendoscopy and can influence management.

Value of autofluorescence bronchoscopy in patients with laryngeal cancer

BACKGROUND

Patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck constitute a high risk group for synchronous and metachronous tumours.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of white light and autofluorescence bronchoscopy in the evaluation of pre-malignant and early neoplastic lesions in patients with laryngeal cancer, who are at high risk of concomitant lung cancer.

METHODS

This prospective, cross-sectional study included 30 patients who had undergone total laryngectomy for squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx. The tracheobronchial system was investigated for the presence of pre-malignant and malignant lesions, using a combination of white light and autofluorescence bronchoscopy. Biopsies were obtained from areas with a pathological appearance, and histopathological studies were performed.

RESULTS

All patients had a permanent tracheostomy. Light and autofluorescence bronchoscopy indicated that the tracheobronchial system was normal in 11 patients. A total of 27 biopsies was taken from the remaining 19 patients, and revealed invasive squamous cell carcinoma in one patient and pre-malignant changes in six.

CONCLUSION

Bronchoscopy is a valuable and practical tool for screening patients at high risk of lung cancer, and requires minimal intervention especially in patients with a permanent tracheostomy. Of the various bronchoscopic techniques becoming available, autofluorescence bronchoscopy shows promise for the detection of pre-invasive malignant changes of the tracheobronchial system in patients previously operated upon for laryngeal cancer.

(18)F-FDG-PET/CT versus panendoscopy for the detection of synchronous second primary tumors in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

This study assesses the additional value of (18)F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography/CT ((18)F-FDG-PET/CT) with respect to synchronous primaries in patients undergoing panendoscopy for staging of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

METHODS

In all, 311 patients underwent both modalities. Cytology, histology, and/or clinical/imaging follow-up served as reference standard.

RESULTS

The prevalence of second primary tumors detected by panendoscopy was 4.5%, compared with 6.1% detected by (18)F-FDG-PET/CT. The sensitivity for panendoscopy was 74%, the specificity was 99.7%, the positive predictive value (PPV) was 93%, and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 98%. The sensitivity for (18)F-FDG-PET/CT was 100%, the specificity was 95.7%, the PPV was 59%, and the NPV was 100%.

CONCLUSIONS

(18)F-FDG-PET/CT is superior to panendoscopy. With a negative (18)F-FDG-PET/CT, the extent of endoscopy can be reduced to the area of the primary tumor. Due to the costs, (18)F-FDG-PET/CT is recommended only in advanced disease to assess potential distant disease. In early-stage cancer, panendoscopy is accurate enough to rule out secondary tumors.

Different patterns of second primary malignancy in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of larynx and hypopharynx

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to compare the incidence, patterns, and survival of second primary malignancy (SPM) in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx (LSCC) and hypopharynx (HPSCC).

METHODS

We retrospectively review the medical record of 581 previously untreated patients with LSCC (392 cases) and HPSCC (189 cases) who received primary surgery with or without postoperative radiotherapy from 1990 to 2000. Data including age, sex, risk factors, subsites and TNM stage of primary tumor, treatment, site and incidence of SPM, and prognosis were collected from medical charts.

RESULTS

Groups with HPSCC had a higher incidence (4.2% vs 2.9% annual rate) and shorter median time (30 vs 59 months) developing SPM rather than LSCC. Fifty-five percent of the SPM occurred in the respiratory axis in LSCC, and 66% developed in the digestive axis in HPSCC. The factors influencing the appearance of SPM included early T stage, tobacco use, and less tumor recurrence. Long-term survival was poorer in those with than without SPM (38% vs 49% at 10 years).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a tendency for SPM to occur in the respiratory axis (lung and larynx) in LSCC and in the digestive axis (oral cavity, pharynx, and esophagus) in HPSCC. This information is important for posttreatment follow-up.

Autofluorescence improves pretreatment mucosal assessment in head and neck cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

Panendoscopy is used in selected patients with head and neck cancer to detect second primary disease. We hypothesized that adding autofluorescence to the bronchoscopy and laryngoscopy part of this procedure could add to the detection of clinically meaningful dysplasias and carcinomas in both the head and neck and bronchus, with resultant change in management.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective observational study on consecutive patients with head and neck cancer who had panendoscopy prior to surgery.

SETTING

Teaching hospital, tertiary referral center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

All patients had white-light inspection observed by ENT surgeons, followed by autofluorescence inspection of the head and neck tumor and surrounding area as well as the bronchus. Extra biopsies were taken from regions of abnormal fluorescence where there was no white-light abnormality.

RESULTS

Sixty-six patients were studied; mean age 64.9 +/- 11 years. As a result of autofluorescence, 33 mucosal biopsies were taken from the head and neck and 37 from the bronchus. Histology included three carcinoma in situ lesions and four severe dysplasias. As a result of these autofluorescence biopsies, change of management occurred in four patients (6% of the total patients). Standard panendoscopy changed management in five patients. Therefore, standard panendoscopy led to change in management in only 55 percent of cases (CI 21%-86%, P = 0.02), with the rest detected by autofluorescence.

CONCLUSION

Adding autofluorescence to panendoscopy in patients with head and neck cancer changed management in a clinically significant number of patients.

The use of examination under anaesthesia and panendoscopy in patients presenting with oral cavity and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

Although examination under anaesthesia and panendoscopy (EUAP) has traditionally been used in the assessment of patients presenting with oral cavity and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the era of modern medicine with its advanced imaging techniques has meant that the indications for this technique have potentially reduced.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

In an attempt to quantify the current use of EUAP in the UK, a structured telephone questionnaire was undertaken of 50 maxillofacial units. Information was gathered regarding whether the technique was adopted on a routine or selective basis. Likewise perceived disadvantages were sought.

RESULTS

Twenty-two units (44%) carried out EUAP on all patients presenting with oral cavity and oropharyngeal SCC. Of the remaining 28 units, all employed EUAP on a selective basis, the most commonly for the assessment of the primary tumour. The most common perceived disadvantage of carrying out EUAP routinely was its potential to increase the waiting time to definitive treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest a gradual move towards the selective use of EUAP in patients presenting with oral cavity and oropharyngeal SCC.

In vivo time-resolved spectroscopy of the human bronchial early cancer autofluorescence

Time-resolved measurements of tissue autofluorescence (AF) excited at 405 nm were carried out with an optical-fiber-based spectrometer in the bronchi of 11 patients. The objectives consisted of assessing the lifetime as a new tumor/normal (T/N) tissue contrast parameter and trying to explain the origin of the contrasts observed when using AF-based cancer detection imaging systems. No significant change in the AF lifetimes was found. AF bronchoscopy performed in parallel with an imaging device revealed both intensity and spectral contrasts. Our results suggest that the spectral contrast might be due to an enhanced blood concentration just below the epithelial layers of the lesion. The intensity contrast probably results from the thickening of the epithelium in the lesions. The absence of T/N lifetime contrast indicates that the quenching is not at the origin of the fluorescence intensity and spectral contrasts. These lifetimes (6.9 ns, 2.0 ns, and 0.2 ns) were consistent for all the examined sites. The fact that these lifetimes are the same for different emission domains ranging between 430 and 680 nm indicates that there is probably only one dominant fluorophore involved. The measured lifetimes suggest that this fluorophore is elastin.

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)--detection of synchronous primaries with (18)F-FDG-PET/CT

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to evaluate (18)F-FDG-PET/CT for the detection of synchronous primaries at initial staging of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

METHODS

FDG-PET/CT images acquired between March 2001 and October 2007 in 589 consecutive patients (147 women, 442 men; mean age 61.5 years, age range 32-97 years) with proven HNSCC were reviewed for the presence of synchronous primaries. Cytology, histology and/or clinical and imaging follow-up served as reference standard.

RESULTS

FDG-PET/CT showed 69 suspected synchronous primaries in 62 patients of which 56 were finally confirmed in 44 patients. Of the 56 second cancers, 46 (82%) were found in the aerodigestive tract in the following locations: lung (26, 46%), head and neck (15, 17%), oesophagus (5, 9%). Ten second cancers (18%) were located outside the aerodigestive tract (colon, five; stomach, lymphoma, breast, thymus and kidney, one each). Six patients had three synchronous primaries and three patients had four synchronous cancers. Nine synchronous cancers were not detected by PET/CT (four head and neck, two lung, two oesophageal, one gastric). False-positive PET/CT findings were mainly related to benign FDG uptake in the intestine due to benign or precancerous polyps or physiological FDG uptake in other head and neck regions. Overall the prevalence of synchronous second primaries according to the reference standard was 9.5%, of which 84% were detected with FDG-PET/CT. In 80% of the patients, therapy was changed because of the detection of a synchronous primary.

CONCLUSION

FDG-PET/CT detects a considerable number of synchronous primaries (8.0% prevalence) at initial staging of patients with HNSCC. Synchronous cancers were predominantly located in the aerodigestive tract, primarily in the lung, head and neck and oesophagus. Detection of second primaries has an important impact on therapy. PET/CT should be performed before panendoscopy.

Panendoscopy and simultaneous primary tumours in patients presenting with early carcinoma of the mobile tongue

Many patients who present with primary malignant disease of the head and neck are examined under anaesthesia to see if they have synchronous tumours. Although previous studies have attempted to establish whether this is either efficient or cost-effective, the patients included tended to include heterogeneous index sites as well as newly-diagnosed and previously-diagnosed tumours. Seventy-four patients who presented with newly-diagnosed early carcinoma of the mobile tongue (T1 N0 / T2 N0) were studied. None had any symptoms of other upper aerodigestive tract disease and all had panendoscopy including bronchoscopy and oesophagoscopy. Only three had serious abnormalities, of which two were synchronous carcinomas. In no patient did the findings of the panendoscopy influence definitive treatment of the index tumour.Although there was no morbidity associated with panendoscopy among these patients, the routine use of panendoscopy we conclude that it is not warranted.

Head and neck cancer: changing epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment

Head and neck cancers account for less than 5% of all cancers and for less than 3% of all cancer deaths in the United States. The populations at risk for head and neck cancers are those who have a long-standing history of smoking and alcohol use. More recently, the incidence of oropharyngeal cancer in younger populations has been increasing and is associated with exposure to the human papillomavirus. This subset of patients appears to have a better overall prognosis and to respond better to treatment. This review is limited to head and neck cancers of squamous cell histology, which constitute more than 90% of head and neck cancers. Because treatment of head and neck cancers is complex and involves multiple modalities, a multidisciplinary approach is needed. This review focuses on the goal of organ preservation and postoperative treatment of high-risk patients with the concurrent use of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. This review also highlights recent advances in treatment using molecularly targeted therapies, specifically the role of inhibitors of the epidermal growth factor receptor in locally advanced and recurrent/metastatic squamous cell cancer of the head and neck. Studies in the English language were identified by searching the MEDLINE, EMBASE database (1980-2007) using the search terms head and neck, squamous cell, carcinoma, chemotherapy, radiation, human papillomavirus, epidermal growth factor receptor, and targeted therapy.

[Simultaneous squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity and oropharynx]

INTRODUCTION

Squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity is often a single localization, but the discovery of another or several associated lesions is not exceptional. The goal of our study was a retrospective analysis of patients having 2 simultaneous squamous cell carcinomas of the upper aerodigestive tract (UADT), i.e. diagnosed during the same panendoscopy by excluding the esophagus and the lung.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1995 and 2001, 1,129 patients were treated for squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx in the Bordeaux Maxillo-facial Surgery Unit. 1% of these patients presented 2 simultaneous squamous cell carcinomas of UADT.

RESULTS

Our series was divided in 9 men (75%) and 3 women (25%) with an average age of 61.3 years (48-86). At the end of the study 2 patients were lost to follow-up, 3 patients were alive without recurrence, and 1 patient was alive with recurrence. The average follow-up time was 17.6 months.

DISCUSSION

A review of the literature gave an incidence of simultaneous squamous cell carcinomas of UADT varying from 1.3 to 12.8% according to authors. Thus, any patient having squamous cell carcinoma of the UADT must be considered as having an important potential risk to present another simultaneous cancer and to benefit from a systematic panendoscopy. In spite of an early diagnosis, the prognostic of these lesions remains bad.

Extended endoscopic mucosal resection in the esophagus and hypopharynx: a new rigid device

We present a new device allowing for the diagnosis and treatment of extended superficial lesions of the esophagus and hypopharynx such as early squamous cell carcinoma, intestinal metaplasia with high grade intraepithelial neoplasia or early adenocarcinoma arising in Barrett's esophagus. A new modified rigid esophagoscope (Karl Storz GmbH, Germany) has been designed. A large mucosal area is sucked against a transparent and perforated hemi-cylindrical window. Mucosal resection is performed by an electrical wire loop at a constant depth of 1 +/- 0.1 mm. The resected surface varies from 4 to 12 cm(2). Circumferential resection consists of two opposite individual hemi-circumferential resections. We performed three series of animal trials: hemicircumferential mucosectomies; circumferential resections of variable (2 to 6 cm) length and long-segment mucosectomies with follow-up. Hemi- and circumferential resections could be done in one or two specimens only which allowed precise histological studies. This facilitated easy orientation and analysis of the surgical margins. The deep resection margin was precisely located at the submucosal level, a prerequisite for a safe resection of superficial cancers of the esophagus and hypopharynx.

FDG PET as a procedure for detecting simultaneous tumours in head and neck cancer patients

AIM

The presence of simultaneous primary tumours in other regions affects the prognosis and management decisions of head and neck cancer patients. Therefore, early detection of these tumours is necessary. Recent improvements in positron emission tomography (PET) have made it possible to examine the patient's whole body. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the clinical contribution of whole-body PET using fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) for head and neck cancer patients.

METHODS

Fifty-three consecutive patients with previously untreated head and neck cancer were examined. Whole-body FDG PET imaging was performed at 1 h after injection of (18)F-FDG. A 3-D acquisition was undertaken and iterative reconstruction was performed. The final diagnosis of simultaneous primary tumour was established by histological findings or clinical follow-up.

RESULTS

Of 53 patients, six (11%) had evidence of simultaneous primary tumour. In five of these six patients, simultaneous primary tumours (two gastric cancer; one colon cancer; one pancreatic cancer; one thyroid cancer) were found by FDG PET. One more patient was found to have prostate cancer on the basis of blood test but this was not detected by FDG PET. In none of the remaining 47 patients, were additional simultaneous primary tumours found by FDG PET or any of the other routine examinations or during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study show a high rate of simultaneous primary tumour in patients with primary head and neck cancer. FDG PET appears to be a promising imaging modality for the detection of simultaneous tumours in head and neck cancer patients.

Impact of positron emission tomography on the initial staging and therapy in locoregional advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of 18F-fluoro-deoxy-glucose positron emission tomography after standard diagnostic workup in patients with advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma on staging and radiation treatment planning.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective controlled study.

METHODS

Forty-eight patients (42 men and 6 women; mean age, 61 y; age range, 35-85 y) with histologically confirmed, advanced-stage (any T, N> or =N2 or T> or =T3, any N) mucosal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma underwent positron emission tomography. The routine workup consisting of physical examination, panendoscopy, chest x-ray film, and contrast-enhanced high-resolution helical computed tomography scan (HRCT) was used for comparison. End points were the extent of lymph node disease, distant metastases, and second primary tumors.

RESULTS

In 41 of 48 patients (85%) the lymph node findings between HRCT and positron emission tomography were concordant. In three patients positron emission tomography led to an upstaging of the tumor in its N category, and in four patients positron emission tomography underestimated lymph node involvement. Positron emission tomography revealed more difficulties in delineating lymph node metastases adjacent to the primary tumor than did HRCT, but was superior for the detection of distant and contralateral lymph node metastases. Positron emission tomography suggested distant metastatic lesions in 6 of 48 patients (13%). Cytological workup confirmed distant metastases in two (4%) and second primary tumors in another two patients (4%). Positron emission tomography results were false-positive in two (4%) patients because of inflammatory changes.

CONCLUSIONS

Whole-body PET is able to assess lymph node involvement, distant metastases, and second primaries in a single study. Even after a routine clinical staging, positron emission tomography leads to a change of treatment in approximately 8% of patients.