Treatment experience of neck tumor surgeries involving carotid artery / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective:To investigate surgical treatment of carotid artery diseases in neck tumor surgery. Methods:A retrospective analysis of the clinical data on carotid artery treatment was conducted in the five cases of neck tumor surgeries treated at Department of Surgical Oncology, the First Peoples Hospital of Lanzhou from March 2010 to May 2020. Surgical methods, including carotid artery resection and ligation, tumor-involved artery resection and vascular reconstruction, and tumor peeling and carotid rupture repairing were used, respectively. Results:Five cases were successfully operated on. One case of carotid artery ligation was followed by intermittent dizziness and decreased contra-lateral limb strength after the surgery. The remaining patients exhibited no neurological complications. A patient with cervical low-grade myofibroblastoma developed into lung metastases 8 months after the surgery. Another patient with cervical lymph node metastases in papillary thyroid cancer developed into lung metastases 24 months after the surgery. Conclusion:Currently, surgical methods for clinical treatment of diseased carotid arteries include carotid artery resection and ligation, simple tumor peeling, tumor invasion artery resection and vascular reconstruction, and interventional therapy. Each surgical method has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, the choice of treatment depends on the patient's specific conditions, physician's clinical experience, and the equipment available.

LIMP-2 enhances cancer stem-like cell properties by promoting autophagy-induced GSK3β degradation in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma / 国际口腔科学杂志·英文版

Cancer stem cell-like cells (CSCs) play an integral role in the heterogeneity, metastasis, and treatment resistance of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) due to their high tumor initiation capacity and plasticity. Here, we identified a candidate gene named LIMP-2 as a novel therapeutic target regulating HNSCC progression and CSC properties. The high expression of LIMP-2 in HNSCC patients suggested a poor prognosis and potential immunotherapy resistance. Functionally, LIMP-2 can facilitate autolysosome formation to promote autophagic flux. LIMP-2 knockdown inhibits autophagic flux and reduces the tumorigenic ability of HNSCC. Further mechanistic studies suggest that enhanced autophagy helps HNSCC maintain stemness and promotes degradation of GSK3β, which in turn facilitates nuclear translocation of β-catenin and transcription of downstream target genes. In conclusion, this study reveals LIMP-2 as a novel prospective therapeutic target for HNSCC and provides evidence for a link between autophagy, CSC, and immunotherapy resistance.

Paraganglioma cuerpo carotídeo: experiencia en 20 años y revisión de la literatura / Carotid body paraganglioma: 20-year experience and literature review

Resumen El paraganglioma carotideo es un tumor infrecuente, originado de las células de la cresta neural. Raramente son secretores y tienen un bajo potencial maligno. El diagnóstico es difícil y requiere una alta sospecha clínica, combinada con estudios imagenológicos. Su tratamiento está basado en la cirugía, con especial cuidado de las estructuras vasculonerviosas que se encuentran en intimo contacto. Se describe la casuística de paragangliomas de cuerpo carotídeo en Clínica Las Condes y compararla con una revisión de la literatura actualizada del tema.

Abstract Carotid paraganglioma is a rare tumor, originated from neural crest cells. Usually they lack hormone secretion function, and have a low malignant potential. Diagnosis is difficult, and requires high clinical suspicious, combined with image and pathologic findings. Its treatment is based on surgery, with special care of close anatomic relation with important vascular-nervous structures. Here, we present cases of carotid paragangliomas evaluated at Clinica Las Condes comparing them with an updated literature review.

Stratifin em Tumores de Cabeça e Pescoço: Um alvo molecular identificado por Phage Display / Stratifin in head and neck tumors: a molecular target identified by Phage Display

Nos últimos anos, houve um aumento na frequência dos casos de tumores de cabeça e pescoço apesar da diminuição do consumo do tabaco e álcool, e isso tem sido atribuído, em parte, à infecção pelo Papilomavírus Humano HPV. Por apresentar baixa sobrevida em 5 anos e ter alta morbidade, tem se buscado novos alvos moleculares para terapias combinadas. Nesse contexto nosso grupo identificou, através da tecnologia de Phage Display, uma sequência peptídica com interação preferencial por células tumorais com relação à células não transformadas, e ensaios adicionais identificaram seu alvo como sendo a proteína Stratifin. Stratifin tem sido reportado como um oncogene em diversos modelos tumorais, entretanto seu papel em carcinoma de células escamosas de cabeça e pescoço (CCECP) permanece desconhecido e poucos trabalhos na literatura reportam sua atividade em CCECP e/ou outro tumores relacionados ao HPV. Dessa forma, o objetivo desse trabalho foi explorar o potencial valor clínico e o papel biológico da Stratifin em CCECP. Dados do perfil de expressão e de metilação assim como dados clínicos foram extraídos em base de dados do The Cancer Genoma Atlas TCGA. Paralelamente, o perfil de expressão de Stratifin foi verificado através de ensaios de RT/qPCR e Western Blot em um painel de linhagens celulares de CCECP que contempla as principais características moleculares para esses tipos tumorais. A partir da observação de que todas as linhagens expressam Stratifin, utilizou-se a tecnologia de CRISPR/Cas9 para modular sua expressão (nocauteando ou superexpressando o gene) de modo a se observar parâmetros relacionados ao processo tumorigênico. Dessa forma, foi possivel verificar os efeitos da Stratifin em ensaios de proliferação, viabilidade após tratamentos com quimioterápicos, irradiação, crescimento livre de ancoragem e clonogenicidade. Como resultados, observamos que expressão aumentada de Stratifin no tecido tumoral quando comparado ao tecido normal, foi positivamente relacionada com o grau histológico, negatividade para HPV, mutação em TP53 e CDKN2A. Biologicamente, o nocaute de Stratifin foi relacionado com maior sensibilidade à quimioterápicos, menor capacidade de formação de colônias, e reduzida capacidade de crescimento livre de ancoragem. Esses resultados sugerem que Stratifin atue como um oncogene em CCECP, entretanto ensaios adicionais devem ser realizados para corroborar esse achados

Over recent years, there has been an increase of head and neck tumors frequency despite the decrease in tobacco and alcohol consumption, and this has been attributed, in part, to Human Papillomavirus infection. Due to its low 5-year survival and high morbidity, new molecular targets for combined therapies have been sought. In this context, our group identified, through Phage Display technology, a peptide sequence with preferential interaction by tumor cells in relation to non-transformed cells, and further assays identified its target as the Stratifin protein. Stratifin has been reported as an oncogene in several tumor models, however its role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains unknown and few works in the literature report its activity in HNSCC and/or other HPV-related tumors. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the potential clinical value and biological role of Stratifin in HNSCC. Expression profile data as well as clinical data were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas - TCGA database. In parallel, the expression profile of Stratifin was verified through RT/qPCR and Western Blot assays in a panel of HNSCC cell lines that address the main molecular characteristics for these tumor types. Since all cell lines express Stratifin, CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to modulate its expression (gene knocking out or overexpressing) in order to check parameters related to the tumorigenic process. Thus, it was possible to verify the Stratifin effects in proliferation assays, viability after chemotherapy treatments, irradiation, anchorage-free growth and clonogenicity. As a result, we observed an increased expression of Stratifin in tumor tissue when compared to normal tissue, which was positively related to histological grade, HPV negativity, mutation in TP53 and CDKN2A. Biologically, knockout of Stratifin was associated with greater sensitivity to chemotherapy, less colony-forming capacity, and reduced anchorage-free growth capacity. These results suggest that Stratifin acts as an oncogene in HNSCC, however additional assays should be performed to corroborate these findings

Cervical Thymic Cyst with parathyroid tissue - a diagnostic conundrum

Cervical thymic cysts are relatively rare benign cystic lesions that tend to be diagnosed clinically as branchial cysts, which usually present as painless, enlarging neck masses. They can occur anywhere along the normal path of descent of thymic primordia from the angle of the mandible to the sternal notch, with mediastinal extension observed in approximately 50% of cases. They are usually seen in the first decade of life on the left side with a male predominance. Here we report a case of a 15-year-old boy who presented to the hospital with left-sided neck swelling for about 2 months. The neck's contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) revealed a large, well-defined cystic swelling in the left neck region, showing peripheral enhancement, seen from the submandibular region to the superior mediastinum extending into the retrosternal region. Direct fine needle aspiration (FNA) was done, which showed a benign lesion with inflammatory and cystic characteristics, leading to the possibility of a branchial cyst. The cyst was completely excised surgically. Histopathology showed a thymic cyst with parathyroid tissue. The presence of thymic tissue with Hassall's corpuscles is essential for the diagnosis. Knowledge of the clinical presentation, cyto-histological findings, and differential diagnosis of cystic cervical lesions in the pediatric population is important to diagnose this rare entity. Hence, though uncommon, when one comes across a cystic cervical region mass in children, a diagnosis of cervical thymic cyst should be kept in mind. Nonetheless, a definitive diagnosis depends on imaging findings as well as intraoperative findings and histopathological examination.

Perfil epidemiológico do carcinoma de células escamosas de cavidade oral e orofaringe diagnosticados na liga mossoroense de estudos e combate ao câncer / Epidemiologic Profile of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity and oropharynx in the MossoróLeague for Studying and Combating Cancer / Perfil epidemiológico del carcinoma epidermoide de cavidad oral y orofaringe diagnosticado en la Liga Mossoroense de Estudios y Combate al Cáncer

Introdução:O carcinoma de células escamosas de cavidade oral e orofaringe é uma neoplasia epitelial maligna comum, respondendo pela maioria dos casos de tumores de cabeça e pescoço. Ele está relacionado a hábitos comportamentais, como tabagismo e etilismo de longa duração, e à infecção pelo Papilomavírus humano. Objetivos:Esse estudo objetivou descrever o perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes diagnosticados com essa neoplasia na Liga Mossoroense de Estudos e Combate ao Câncer. Metodologia: Foi realizado um estudo observacional com delineamento transversal a partir de dados presentes nos prontuários clínicos e laudos anatomopatológicos e no Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade no período entre 2006 a 2018. Os dados foram analisados a partir do Software R, utilizandoo teste de Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney para as análises inferenciais e o método de Kaplan-Meier para análise da sobrevida. Resultados:225 prontuários foram analisados, sendo 70,22% de homens, 65,33% na faixa etária entre 46-70 anos e cor branca (51,57%). Destes, 25,78% eram tabagistas e 39,11% tabagistas e etilistas. O principal tratamento identificado foi a associação de cirurgia, quimioterapia e radioterapia. Observou-se que 49,10% dos óbitos foram em decorrência dessa neoplasia. O principal estádio patológico encontrado foi o quatro A (34,22%). Foi identificada maior sobrevida nos pacientes acima de 70 anos, cujo tratamento foi exclusivamente cirúrgico. Menor sobrevida foi identificada em indivíduos que tinham associação de hábitos (etilismo e tabagismo). Conclusões:Nossos resultados sugerem que a evolução à óbito foi o principal desfecho clínico e, isso pode estar relacionado aos hábitos comportamentais que influenciam diretamente o curso e prognóstico da doença. Ademais, destaca-se a importância do diagnóstico precoce a fim de reduzir óbitos e melhorar a qualidade de vida dos indivíduos, assim como a necessidade de implementar políticas educativas sobre os principais fatores de risco associados ao desenvolvimento dessa neoplasia (AU).

Introduction: Squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity and oropharynx is a common malignant epithelial neoplasm, accounting for most cases of head and neck tumors. It is related to behavioral habits, such as long-standing smoking and alcoholism, as well as to the human Papillomavirus infection. Objectives: This study aimed at describing the epidemiological profile of the patients diagnosed with this neoplasm in the Mossoró League for Studying and Combating Cancer. Methodology:An observational study with a cross-sectional design was carried out based on data present in the medical records and anatomopathological reports and in the Mortality Information System during the 2006-2018 period. The data were analyzed using the R Software, resorting to the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitneytest for the inferential analyses and to the Kaplan-Meier method for survival analysis. Results: 225 medical records were analyzed: 70.22% belonging to men, 65.33% aged between 46 and 70 years old and white-skinned (51.57%). Of these, 25.78% were smokers and 39.11% were smokers and alcoholics. The main treatment identified was the association of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It was observed that 49.10% of the deaths were due to this neoplasm. The main pathological stage found wasfour A(34.22%).Longer survival was identified in patients over 70 years of age, whose treatment was exclusively surgical. Shorter survival was identified in individuals who had associated habits (alcoholism and smoking). Conclusions:Our results suggest that evolution to death was the main clinical outcome; this can be related to the behavioral habits that exert a direct influence on the course and prognosis of the disease. Furthermore, the importance of early diagnosis is highlighted in order to reduce the number of deaths and improve the individuals' quality of life, as well as the need to implement educational policies on the main risk factors associated with the development of this neoplasm (AU).

Introducción: El carcinoma de células escamosas de la cavidad oral y la orofaringe es una neoplasia epitelial maligna común, que representa la mayoría de los casos de tumores de cabeza y cuello. Se relaciona con hábitos de comportamiento, como el tabaquismo y el alcoholismo, y la infección por el virus papiloma humano. Objetivos:Este estudio tuvo como objetivo describir el perfil epidemiológico de los pacientes diagnosticados con esta neoplasiaen la Liga Mossoroense de Estudios y Combate al Cáncer. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio observacional, transversal a partir de los datos presentes en las historias clínicas e informes patológicos y en el Sistema de Información de Mortalidad en el período 2006-2018. Los datos se analizaron mediante el Software R, con utilización de la Prueba de Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney para análisis inferencial y el método de Kaplan-Meier para análisis de supervivencia. Resultados:Se analizaron 225 historias clínicas, 70,22% en hombres, 65,33% con edades entre 46-70 años y blancos (51,57%). De estos, 25,78% eran fumadores y 39,11% eran fumadores y alcohólicos. El principal tratamiento identificado fue la asociación de cirugía, quimioterapia y radioterapia. 49,10% de las muertes se debieron a esta neoplasia. El principal estadio patológico encontrado fue cuatro A (34,22%). Se identificó mayor sobrevida en pacientes mayores de 70 años, cuyo tratamiento fue exclusivamente quirúrgico. Se identificó una menor sobrevida en personas que tenían hábitos asociados. Conclusiones:Nuestros resultados sugieren que la evolución hacia la muerte fue el principal resultado clínico y esto puede estar relacionado con hábitos de comportamiento que influyen directamente en el curso y pronóstico de la enfermedad. Además, se destaca la importancia del diagnóstico precoz para reducir las muertes y mejorar la calidad de vida, así como la necesidad de implementar políticas educativas sobre los principales factores de riesgo asociados al desarrollo de esta neoplasia (AU).

Avaliação do nível de conhecimento dos pacientes atendidos na atenção básica sobre a prevenção dos cânceres de cabeça e pescoço / Assessment of the level of knowledge of patients treated in primary care on the prevention of head and neck cancers / Evaluación del nivel de conocimiento de los pacientes atendidos en cuidados básicos sobre la prevención del cáncer de cabeza y cuello

Introdução:O câncer de cabeça e pescoço é um conjunto de neoplasias que atingem o trato aero digestivo superior. Essas neoplasias apresentam sintomatologia variada, que depende da localização do tumor, gravidade e tempo de ocorrência. Objetivo:Avaliar o nível de conhecimento da população, usuária da atenção básica, acerca da prevenção e tratamento dos Cânceres de Cabeça e Pescoço.Metodologia:Trata-se de um estudo de campo transversal descritivo, em que se coletou informações acerca do conhecimento sobre cânceres de cabeça e pescoço, informações sociodemográficas, histórico familiar, características clínicas e de tratamentos. A coleta foi realizada em julho de 2019, em três Estratégias de Saúde da Família da cidade de Piripiri,Piauí. A pesquisa foi submetida e aprovadapelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa com o Parecer nº 3.221.522.Resultadose discussão:A maioria dos entrevistados foram mulheres solteiras com idade média de 44,4 anos e de baixa renda. Dentre os questionamentos realizados, grande parte não soube responderquestões sobre conhecimentos gerais a respeito dessas enfermidades. Outro fator importante é a baixa procura por serviços de saúde. Conclusões:Observou-se que os entrevistados apresentam desinformação a respeito da prevenção e tratamento desse grupo de cânceres, sendo necessário o fortalecimento de ações de educação popular em saúde (AU).

Introduction:Head and neck cancer is a group of neoplasms that affect the upper aerodigestive tract. These neoplasms have varied symptoms, depending on the location of the tumor, severity and time of occurrence.Objective:To assess the level of knowledge of the population, users of primary care, about the prevention and treatment of Head and Neck Cancer. Methodology:This is a descriptive cross-sectional study, in which information about knowledge about head and neck cancers, sociodemographic information, family history, clinical and treatment characteristics was collected. The collection was carried out in July 2019, in three Family Health Strategies in the city of Piripiri, Piauí. The research was submitted and approved by theResearch Ethics Committee with Opinion No. 3,221,522. Resultsand discussion:Most of the interviewees were single women with an average age of 44.4 years and low income. Among the questions asked, most of them did not know how to answer questions about general knowledge about these diseases. Another important factor is the low demand for health services. Conclusions:It was observed that the interviewees have misinformation regarding the prevention and treatment of this group of cancers, and it is necessary to strengthen popular health education actions (AU).

Introducción:El cáncer de cabeza y cuello es un grupo de neoplasias que afectan el tracto aerodigestivo superior. Estas neoplasias tienen síntomas variados, que dependen de la ubicación del tumor, la gravedad y el momento de aparición. Objetivo:Evaluar el nivel de conocimiento de la población, usuarios de la atención primaria de salud, sobre la prevención y el tratamiento del Cáncer de Cabeza y Cuello. Metodología:Se trata de un estudio descriptivo transversal, en el que se recopiló información sobre conocimientos sobre cánceres de cabeza y cuello, información sociodemográfica, antecedentes familiares, características clínicas y de tratamiento. La recolección se realizó en julio de 2019, en tres Estrategias de Salud de la Familia en la ciudad de Piripiri, Piauí. La investigación fue sometida y aprobada por el Comité de Ética en Investigación con Opinión No. 3.221.522. Resultados y discusión:La mayoría de los encuestados eran mujeres solteras con una edad promedio de 44,4 años y bajos ingresos. Entre las preguntas formuladas, la mayoría de ellos no sabía cómo responder preguntas sobre conocimientos generales sobre estas enfermedades. Otro factor importante es la baja demanda de servicios de salud. Conclusiones:Se observó que los entrevistados tienen desinformación sobre la prevención y tratamiento de este grupo de cánceres, y es necesario fortalecer las acciones de educación popular en salud (AU).

Retropharyngeal lymph node dissection in head and neck cancers treated with transoral robotic surgery / 中华肿瘤杂志

Objective: To evaluate the indications, safety, feasibility, and surgical technique for patients with head and neck cancers undergoing transoral robotic retropharyngeal lymph node (RPLN) dissection. Methods: The current study enrolled 12 consecutive head and neck cancer patients (seven males and four females) who underwent transoral robotic RPLN dissection with the da Vinci surgical robotic system at the Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center from May 2019 to July 2020. Seven patients were diagnosed as nasopharyngeal carcinoma with RPLN metastasis after initial treatments, 4 patients were diagnosed as thyroid carcinoma with RPLN metastasis after initial treatments, and one patient was diagnosed as oropharyngeal carcinoma with RPLN metastasis before initial treatments. The operation procedure and duration time, intraoperative blood loss volume and complications, nasogastric feeding tube dependence, tracheostomy dependence, postoperative complications, and hospitalization time were recorded and analyzed. Results: All patients were successfully treated by transoral robotic dissection of the metastatic RPLNs, none of which was converted to open surgery. RPLNs were completely resected in 10 patients, and partly resected in 2 patients (both were nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients). The mean number of RPLN dissected was 1.7. The operation duration time and intraoperative blood loss volume were (191.3±101.1) min and (150.0±86.6) ml, respectively. There was no severe intraoperative complication such as massive haemorrhage or adjacent organ injury during surgery. Nasogastric tube use was required in all patients with (17.1±10.6) days of dependence, while tracheotomy was performed in 8 patients with (11.6±10.7) days of dependence. The postoperative hospitalization stay was (8.5±5.7) days. Postoperative complications occurred in 4 patients, including 2 of retropharyngeal incision and 2 of dysphagia. During a follow-up of (6.5±5.1) months, disease-free progression was observed in all patients, 10 patients were disease-free survival and other 2 patients were survival with tumor burden. Conclusions: The transoral robotic RPLN dissection is safety and feasible. Compared with the traditional open surgical approach, it is less traumatic and safer, has fewer complications and good clinical application potentiality. The indications for transoral robotic RPLN dissection include thyroid carcinoma, oropharyngeal carcinoma, and some selected nasopharyngeal carcinoma and other head and neck cancers. Metastatic RPLNs from some nasopharyngeal carcinoma with incomplete capsule, unclear border and adhesion to the surrounding vessels are not suitable for transoral robotic RPLN dissection.

Clinical features and prognostic influences of retropharyngeal lymph node metastasis in oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: a meta analysis / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective: To compare the clinical features and prognoses of patients with oropharyngeal or hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) with and without retropharyngeal lymph node metastases. Methods: PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP and Wanfang databases were searched for published literatures on retropharyngeal lymph node metastasis of oropharyngeal or hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (1900, 2021), and outcome indicators such as survival rate and related clinical features were extracted. The quality evaluation of the included literatures was carried out. RevMan 5.4 and Stata 16.0 software were used for data analysis. Results: A total of 18 literatures were included. Meta analysis showed that 3-year and 5-year survival rates and 5-year disease-specific survival rate of patients with oropharyngeal or hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma with retropharyngeal lymph node metastases were lower than those without metastases, 46.1% vs. 53.0%, 40.8% vs. 62.5% and 35.9% vs. 53.1%, respectively, and the differences were statistically significant (OR values were 0.26, 0.38, 0.38, and 95%CI were 0.10-0.69, 0.28-0.51, 0.23-0.65, respectively, all P values<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in clinical stage (III-IV), T stage (T3+T4), N stage (N2), positive cervical lymph node metastases and number of lymph node metastases (≥3) between the two groups (OR values were 4.28, 2.20, 2.88, 10.83, 6.53, and 95%CI were 1.70-10.74, 1.35-3.58, 1.90-4.34, 3.57-32.95, 1.75-24.38, respectively, all P<0.05). The sensitivity and specificity of preoperative imaging for diagnosing retropharyngeal lymph nodes metastases were respectively 0.72 (95%CI=0.54-0.85) and 0.98 (95%CI=0.74-1.00), and the area under curve (AUC) of summary receiver operating characteristic curve (SROC) was 0.84 (95%CI=0.80-0.87). Conclusions: The survival rate of patients with oropharyngeal or hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma with retropharyngeal lymph node metastasis is significantly reduced, the clinical stage and T stage are late, and the cervical lymph node metastasis rate is high. Retropharyngeal lymph node metastasis is more insidious, the sensitivity of preoperative imaging diagnosis is not high.

Ossifying fibromyxoid tumor of the oral cavity: rare case report and long-term follow-up

Ossifying fibromyxoid tumor (OFMT) is a rare mesenchymal soft tissue benign neoplasm with an uncertain line of differentiation, which arises most frequently in extremities. The head and neck region involvement is uncommon, with only ten intraoral cases published in the English-language literature. One additional case of OFMT is reported here, including a literature review of intraoral reported cases. A 45-year-old female patient presented a painless nodule involving the buccal mucosa of approximately two years duration, measuring nearly 1.3 cm in maximum diameter. The main histopathological features include ovoid to round cells embedded in a fibromyxoid matrix with a perpheral shell of lamellar bone. Immunohistochemically, the tumor showed immunoreactivity for vimentin and S100. No recurrence has been detected after 7 years of follow-up.

Study of EGFR mutations in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas

Introduction Squamous carcinoma is the commonest malignancy of the head and neck region. It is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) regulates downstream signaling pathways through its tyrosine kinase (TK) domains that play a role in cell proliferation and survival. EGFR mutations have been found to occur between exons 18 to 21 on chromosome 7. Limited studies are available on EGFR-TK mutations in the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) globally. This study explores EGFR mutations in 30 HNSCC cases presenting to a tertiary care hospital over a period of two years. Material and Methods Fresh tumor tissue was collected from the resection specimens of cases of primary HNSCC. Cases with pre-operative therapy were not included. Parameters in the form of patients' age, gender, smoking/tobacco intake, site of the lesion were recorded. Tumor parameters after histopathological examination were recorded in the form of TNM stage, tumor grade. DNA was extracted from fresh tissue of all the cases. EGFR Mutation Analysis Kit assay was used to detect mutations of the EGFR gene. PCR was run and results were analyzed. Results EGFR Mutations were found in 6.7%of the patients. There was no significant association of the EGFR Mutation with the studied parameters. Conclusion EGFR mutations are present in a subset of patients of HNSCC. Patients having these mutations may benefit from targeted therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Paraganglioma yugular bilateral: reporte de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Bilateral jugular paraganglioma: case report and review of the literature

Resumen El paraganglioma (PG) es una neoplasia infrecuente originada de las células paraganglionares, embriológicamente derivadas de la cresta neural. Se localizan en la cabeza, base de cráneo, cuello, mediastino, abdomen y pelvis. La mayor parte de los PG muestran un curso clínico benigno, sin embargo, algunos casos pueden mostrar un comportamiento biológico agresivo con invasión local y metástasis a distancia. Un avance significativo en patología molecular ha sido el reconocimiento que el 30%-40% de estas neoplasias presentan alteraciones genéticas. Se han descrito más de 45 genes involucrados, incluyendo mutaciones de la línea germinal succinato deshidrogenasa. Actualmente se recomienda hacer test genético a todos los portadores de PG incluyendo los de presentación esporádica. El PG más frecuente se ubica en la glándula suprarrenal llamado feocromocitoma. El diagnóstico definitivo se realiza con histología, sin embargo, el estudio imagenológico puede entregar una aproximación diagnóstica certera. Debido a la aceptación actual que todos los PG tienen potencial metastásico, el concepto de PG benigno y maligno ha cambiado a uno de estimación de riesgo de metástasis, aunque no existe un esquema único aceptado para tal efecto. El tratamiento considera la cirugía, la radioterapia, la observación y terapias combinadas. Dado el lento crecimiento de este tipo de neoplasia y las potenciales complicaciones de la terapia quirúrgica, la observación es una opción especialmente para pacientes añosos dejando las otras opciones para pacientes más jóvenes. En este trabajo se presenta un caso de paraganglioma yugular bilateral gigante tratado con radioterapia de intensidad modulada incluyendo una revisión bibliográfica pertinente.

Abstract Paraganglioma (PG) is a rare neoplasm derived from paraganglionic cells of the neural crest. They are located in the head, skull base, neck, mediastinum, abdomen and pelvis. Most PGs show a benign clinical course, however, some cases may show aggressive biological behavior with local invasion and distant metastasis. A significant advance in molecular pathology has been the recognition that 30%-40% of these neoplasms present genetic alterations; more than 45 genes have been described, including mutations of the germline succinate dehydrogenase. Currently it is recommended to make genetic test to all patients with PG, including sporadic presentation. The most frequent PG is located in the adrenal gland called pheochromocytoma. The definitive diagnosis is made with histology; however, the imaging study can provide an accurate diagnostic approach. It is now accepted that all PG have a metastatic potential, therefore the concept of benign or malignant has been changed to a metastasis risk stratification approach however no single scheme is been widely used. The treatment considers surgery, radiotherapy, observation and combination therapies. Given the slow growth of this type of neoplasia and the potential complications of surgical therapy, observation is an option especially for elderly patients leaving the other options for younger patients. In this work we present a case of giant bilateral jugular paraganglioma treated with intensity modulated radiation therapy, including a pertinent literature review.

Metástasis cervical con primario desconocido, cambios en los paradigmas: revisión sobre el enfrentamiento clínico, estudio y tratamiento / Cervical metastases from unknown primary tumor, paradigm changes: review on clinical confrontation, study and treatment

Resumen En adultos, una masa cervical detectada mediante examen físico o un estudio de imagen puede ser la única manifestación de un cáncer proveniente de cabeza y cuello. Un retraso en el diagnóstico repercute en el pronóstico de la enfermedad, por lo que debe haber un alto índice de sospecha. Las metástasis cervicales con primario desconocido (MCCPD) son tumores metastásicos en los que el estudio diagnóstico no logró identificar el sitio primario del cáncer, con una histología predominantemente de tipo escamosa. Según algunos estudios, el origen más frecuente resultó ser la orofaringe, incluyendo amígdala palatina y base de lengua. Factores de riesgo conocidos son edades avanzadas, consumo de tabaco y de alcohol. Actualmente, la infección por el virus del papiloma humano (VPH) está teniendo un rol cada vez más importante como factor de riesgo, formando parte de entre 20%-25% de los cánceres de cabeza y cuello. Al enfrentarse a un paciente con masa cervical es importante realizar una completa anamnesis y examen físico acucioso para detectar cualquier elemento sugerente de malignidad. Se debe complementar con nasofibroscopía para visualizar estructuras que no alcanzan a evaluarse en el examen habitual. También se puede orientar la búsqueda del primario desconocido en base a los patrones de drenaje linfático. Dentro del estudio complementario se puede comenzar con una tomografía computada (TC) y se puede considerar también el ultrasonido o un PET/TC. Si con esto aún no se logra definir el primario, continuar con una punción aspirativa con aguja fina (PAAF), luego biopsia core que consiste en tomar una muestra del centro de la lesión guiada por ecografía, si fuese necesario, incluyendo inmunohistoquímica para VPH; ambos estudios histológicos son preferibles en vez de una biopsia abierta debido al menor riesgo de diseminación y complicaciones. El siguiente paso incluye estudio endoscópico y biopsias bajo anestesia. El tratamiento de los pacientes con MCCPD, va a depender de factores relacionados con el estadio de la enfermedad: desde cirugía o radioterapia (RT) únicas, cirugía más RT, y en algunos casos quimioterapia. Se recomienda seguimiento clínico frecuente durante los primeros años y con imágenes dentro de los 6 primeros meses postratamiento.

Abstract In adults, a cervical mass detected by physical examination or an imaging study may be the only manifestation of cancer from the head and neck. A delay in the diagnosis affects the prognosis of the disease, so there must be a high index of suspicion. Cervical metastases from unknown primary tumor (CUP) are metastatic tumors in which the diagnostic study failed to identify the primary site of cancer, with predominantly squamous histology. According to some studies, the most frequent origin was the oropharynx, including palatine tonsil and tongue base. Known risk factors are advanced ages, tobacco and alcohol consumption. Currently, human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is playing an increasingly important role as a risk factor, being the cause of between 20-25% of cancers of the head and neck. When confronting a patient with cervical mass it is important to carry out a complete anamnesis and a thorough physical examination to detect any element suggestive of malignancy. Physical examination could be complemented with a flexible nasal endoscopic to evaluate structures that can not be evaluated in the habitual examination. The search for the unknown primary can also be oriented based on lymphatic drainage patterns. Within the complementary evaluations, one can start with a study of images such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with contrast, and also could consider ultrasound or PET/CT. If the primary can not be defined yet, fine needle aspiration (FNAP) can be the next choice and then a core biopsy that consisting of taking a sample from the center of the ultrasound-guided lesion, if necessary, including immunohistochemistry for HPV; both histological studies are preferable to an open biopsy because of the lower risk of complications. The next step searching for the primary includes endoscopic study and biopsies under anesthesia. Regarding to the management of patients with CUP, it will depend on factors related to the stage of the disease: from surgery or radiotherapy (RT) only, surgery and RT, and in some cases chemotherapy. Frequent clinical follow-up is recommended during the first years and images within the first 6 months after treatment.

Effect of the sense of coherence and associated factors in the quality of life of head and neck cancer patients

Abstract The sense of coherence (SOC) is a measure of global orientation regarding the ability of individuals to cope with stressful situations. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association between SOC and quality of life (QoL) and clinical and sociodemographic characteristics among survivors of oral, oropharynx, hypopharynx, or larynx cancer. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 90 cancer patients in follow up at the Santa Maria University Hospital in southern Brazil who had completed conformal 3D radiotherapy at least three months earlier. QoL was assessed using the University of Washington Quality of Life (UW-QOL) questionnaire and SOC was measured using the Brazilian version of the SOC-13 questionnaire. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and the disease were obtained from patients' charts. Oral clinical conditions were also evaluated. Associations between exploratory variables and mean UW-QOL scores were evaluated through Poisson regression and the results were presented as rate ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The mean overall UW-QOL score was 67.90 (± 18.71). Moderate and high SOC scores were associated with higher mean UW-QOL scores, that is, individuals with a stronger SOC demonstrated better QoL, (p < 0.05). Regarding the clinical variables, individuals with advanced stage cancer and those with hyposalivation and trismus had poorer QoL (p < 0.05). Patients with a greater SOC reported a better quality of life. Our findings show the importance of focusing on psychosocial factors, which can alleviate the impact caused by the disease and improve the QoL of these patients.

Squamous cell carcinoma implantation in gastrostomy orifice. Case report / Implantação de carcinoma espinocelular em orifício de gastrostomia. Relato de caso

ABSTRACT Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy is used to provide enteral nutritional support for patients with obstructive oropharyngeal or esophageal neoplasms. The placement of the catheter is considered safe, with few complications. Despite this, a specific complication that is considered rare, has been increasingly described in the literature, i.e., metastasis of head and neck cancer in the gastrostomy stoma. In this report, we described a case of metastasis of squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx in the gastrostomy site, and discussed the possible etiologies and alternatives, seeking to reduce the incidence of this complication.

RESUMO A gastrostomia endoscópica percutânea é utilizada para oferecer suporte nutricional enteral para pacientes com neoplasias obstrutivas de orofaringe ou esôfago. A colocação da sonda é considerada segura, com poucas complicações. Apesar disso, uma complicação em particular, considerada rara, está sendo cada vez mais descrita na literatura: a metástase de neoplasia de cabeça e pescoço para o estoma da gastrostomia. Neste relato, descrevemos um caso de metástase de carcinoma espinocelular de laringe para o sítio da gastrostomia, e discutimos as possíveis etiologias e alternativas, buscando diminuir a incidência desta complicação.

Association between oral hygiene and head and neck cancer in Brazil / Associação entre higiene oral e câncer de cabeça e pescoço no Brasil

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Poor oral hygiene, regular use of mouthwash and absence of visits to the dentist could correspond to potential risk factors for the development of head and neck cancer. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine whether oral hygiene is associated with the occurrence of oral cavity and head and neck cancer in a Brazilian sample. Method: The variables of oral hygiene condition, such as toothbrushing frequency, dental loss, need and use of prosthesis, and regular visit to the dentist in a case-control study were analyzed in patients from five hospitals in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, paired by gender and age, from the multicenter project Genoma do Câncer de Cabeça e Pescoço (GENCAPO). Results: The most frequent malignancies in the 899 patients included were those of the tongue border (11.41%) and tongue base (10.92%). The multivariable statistical analysis found odds ratio values: Brushing once 0.33 (95%CI 0.25 - 0.44); Brushing twice 0.42 (95%CI 0.35 - 0.52); Flossing always 0.19 (95%CI 0.13 - 0.27); Flossing sometimes 0.19 (95%CI 0.15 - 0.24); Bleeding 2.40 (95%CI 1.40 - 4.09); Prosthesis 1.99 (95%CI 1.54 - 2.56); Visiting the dentist 0.29 (95%CI 0.22 - 0.37); Good hygiene 0.21 (95%CI 0.17 - 0.27); Regular hygiene 0.20 (95%CI 0.15 - 0.25); number of missing teeth (6 or more) 3.30 (95%CI 2.67 - 4.08). Conclusion: These data showed that, in the population studied, indicators of good hygiene such as brushing teeth and flossing were protective factors for mouth and head and neck cancer, while bleeding and many missing teeth were risk factors.

RESUMO: Introdução: Má higiene bucal, uso regular de enxaguante bucal e ausência de visitas ao dentista podem corresponder a potenciais fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de câncer de cabeça e pescoço. Objetivo: Determinar se a higiene bucal está associada à ocorrência de câncer em cavidade oral e cabeça e pescoço em uma amostra brasileira. Método: O estudo caso controle analisou variáveis de higiene bucal, como frequência de escovação, perda dentária, necessidade e uso de prótese e visita regular ao dentista em pacientes de cinco hospitais do estado de São Paulo, pareados por sexo e idade, provenientes do projeto multicêntrico Genoma do Câncer de Cabeça e Pescoço (GENCAPO). Resultados: As neoplasias mais frequentes nos 899 pacientes incluídos foram: bordo de língua (11,41%) e base de língua (10,92%). A análise estatística múltipla encontrou os seguintes valores de odds ratio: escovar uma vez 0,33 (IC95% 0,25 - 0,44); escovar duas vezes 0,42 (IC95% 0,35 - 0,52); uso de fio dental sempre 0,19 (IC95% 0,13 - 0,27); uso de fio dental às vezes 0,19 (IC95% 0,15 - 0,24); sangramento 2,40 (IC95% 1,40 - 4,09); prótese 1,99 (IC95% 1,54 - 2,56), visita ao dentista 0,29 (IC95% 0,22 - 0,37); boa higiene 0,21 (IC95% 0,17 - 0,27); higiene regular 0,20 (IC95% 0,15 - 0,25); e número de dentes ausentes (6 ou mais) 3,30 (IC95% 2,67 - 4,08). Conclusões: Esses dados mostraram que, na população estudada, indicadores de boa higiene, como escovar os dentes e uso do fio dental, foram fatores de proteção para o câncer de boca e cabeça e pescoço, enquanto sangramento e muitos dentes ausentes foram fatores de risco.

Tobacco and Alcohol Use and Clinical Staging of Head and Neck Tumors

Abstract Objective: To determine the relationship between tobacco and alcohol consumption and staging of head and neck cancer in patients treated at a referral hospital for cancer treatment. Material and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study based on medical records of patients with head and neck cancer treated between 2008 and 2015. The following variables were considered: gender, age, marital status, educational level, place of residence, profession, affected site, clinical staging of neoplasms, histopathological diagnosis, tobacco and alcohol consumption. Results: Of the 154 medical records analyzed, there was a predominance of male patients (72.7%), single (50%), with low education (88.1%), rural workers (38.3%), residents in the state countryside (70.2%) and aged 20-94 years. T3 and T4 size tumors prevailed. A significant correlation was found between alcohol use and tumor size (p=0.03) and presence of nodules (p<0.001), as well as between alcohol use and smoking with tumor size (p=0.04) and presence of nodules (p=0.019). No correlations were observed between tobacco use and injury staging. Conclusion: There was strong significance between tumor size and presence of nodules, both with the use of alcohol alone and with tobacco, thus suggesting the existence of important carcinogenic action of this substance.

Effect of the sense of coherence and associated factors in the quality of life of head and neck cancer patients

Abstract The sense of coherence (SOC) is a measure of global orientation regarding the ability of individuals to cope with stressful situations. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association between SOC and quality of life (QoL) and clinical and sociodemographic characteristics among survivors of oral, oropharynx, hypopharynx, or larynx cancer. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 90 cancer patients in follow up at the Santa Maria University Hospital in southern Brazil who had completed conformal 3D radiotherapy at least three months earlier. QoL was assessed using the University of Washington Quality of Life (UW-QOL) questionnaire and SOC was measured using the Brazilian version of the SOC-13 questionnaire. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and the disease were obtained from patients' charts. Oral clinical conditions were also evaluated. Associations between exploratory variables and mean UW-QOL scores were evaluated through Poisson regression and the results were presented as rate ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The mean overall UW-QOL score was 67.90 (± 18.71). Moderate and high SOC scores were associated with higher mean UW-QOL scores, that is, individuals with a stronger SOC demonstrated better QoL, (p < 0.05). Regarding the clinical variables, individuals with advanced stage cancer and those with hyposalivation and trismus had poorer QoL (p < 0.05). Patients with a greater SOC reported a better quality of life. Our findings show the importance of focusing on psychosocial factors, which can alleviate the impact caused by the disease and improve the QoL of these patients.

Basal cell carcinoma: multimodal treatment and the role of neoadjuvant vismodegib

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer. It generally has an indolent course with low rates of metastasis and mortality. However, BCC is locally invasive and can cause significant morbidity due to destructive local spread. We report our experience with a patient who was referred to our skin cancer unit due to a previously neglected lesion on the parietal region of the scalp, which had developed for 7 years. The patient was prescribed vismodegib on the basis that surgery could cause excessive functional and aesthetic damage. The patient had an objective partial response after 20 months of treatment. He was then submitted to radical skin excision, leaving a large defect that was reconstructed using a free latissimus dorsi muscle flap. The patient recovered well, and at the 1-year follow-up there were no signs of local recurrence. Our case demonstrates the value of vismodegib treatment prior to surgery in a locally advanced, high-risk scalp BCC and highlights the importance of an individualized and specialized approach with these patients, within a multidisciplinary team.

Metastatic non-muscle invasive bladder cancer with cervical lymph node metastasis

ABSTRACT Bladder cancer is a common cancer that may present as superficial, invasive, or metastatic disease. Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) represents the majority of bladder cancer diagnoses, but represents a spectrum of disease with a variable clinical course, notably for significant risk of recurrence and potential for progression. NMIBC metastasis to distant organs without local invasion or regional metastasis is a very rare occurrence, so there are limited case reports about early metastasis in the literature.