Staging and grading of squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue

ABSTRACT

The study was undertaken on the biopsies confirmed patients of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the tongue, in oral and maxillofacial surgical unit of Khyber College of Dentistry, Peshawar for a period of27 months i.e.,. From January 2004 to March 2006. A total of23 patients of squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue were included in the study. Most of the patients were in advanced stege [stage III and IV], 43.47% and 30.43% respectively on the basis of TNM classification of staging. The most common histopathological pattern was well differentiated squamous cell carcinoma G1 [73.91%]. Posterior lateral border of the tongue is the most common site of the tongue involved [52.17%]. SCC of the tongue was more common in males [65%] as compared to females 35%. The age range was 28 to 77 years with the mean age 0 f 46.21 years [SD + 12.28] with the maximum incidence in the .4th decade of life. 39.13% of the patients were snuff [Niswar] dippers. The aim of the study was to determine the TNM staging and grading of patients with sec of the tongue. This system provides an objective standardized assessment to aid planning, facilitating the exchange of information and determining the prognosis and potential for cure