Staging systems for cancer of the head and neck region--comparison between AJC and UICC.

Two major TNM classification systems are currently in use for staging cancer of the head and neck region, i.e. AJC and UICC. This results in confusion when attempting to evaluate treatment results and exchange information between overseas centres. The actual differences between these systems are described. The effect on 2 year survival is assessed by reviewing 898 cases of squamous carcinomas of the nasopharynx, larynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx and oral cavity. The direct correlation between the 2 systems is established suggesting that head and neck oncologists may communicate accurately, thus allowing optimal treatment for the patient to be selected. Shortcomings of the systems are presented and other important variables not included in either current TNM systems are discussed.