[Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in the head and neck region]

The aim of the present investigation was to describe non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in the head and neck region, with or without extranodal location, diagnosed in a regional department of otolaryngology in 1993-97.

Patients were identified by the Cancer Registry of Norway. Clinical data were obtained from patient files. Beside visible tumour the main reason for referral was patient complaints of symptoms from upper respiratory or oropharyngeal tract. Biopsy specimens were reevaluated with regard to degree of malignancy and related clinical staging and topographic localization of the lymphoma.

121 patients with lymphomas from Vest-Agder County (155,000 inhabitants) were identified. In 21 of these patients (17%) the lymphoma was sited in the head and neck region; in 12 items extranodally located. Seven of the lymphomas with extranodal sites were found in pallatine tonsils and Waldeyer's ring. Thirteen of the 21 patients presented with a visible tumour.

Less than 20% of all recently discovered non-Hodgkin's lymphomas were located to the head and neck. Early diagnosis depends on a thorough otolaryngological examination and biopsies from suspected lesions.