Tonsillar carcinoma: analysis of treatment results.

OBJECTIVE

Early stage squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil is amenable to treatment by either surgery or radiation therapy as a single modality, with comparable rates of local control. Unfortunately, manifestation of the disease at an early stage is infrequent, and surgery or radiation alone is less successful in controlling advanced disease. This study was conducted to elucidate the optimal treatment plan for advanced stages of tonsillar carcinoma and to identify significant risk factors for development of recurrence or failure of local control.

METHOD: We reviewed the UCLA experience with treatment of all stages of tonsillar carcinoma between 1970 and 1990.

RESULTS

Actuarial local control rates were 70% for T1, 72% for T2, 50% for T3, and 0% for T4 at 5-year follow-up. Local control and overall survival rates were compared according to the type of treatment rendered for each stage.

CONCLUSIONS

From our analysis we conclude that aggressive combination therapy with surgery and radiation yields significantly higher local control rates for stages 3 and 4 tonsillar carcinomas. The advantages and disadvantages of preoperative versus postoperative radiation therapy are discussed.