Laryngectomy whole organ serial sections--histological parameters correlated with recurrence rate

Whole organ sections of laryngectomy specimens, collected over a 10-year period (1976-1985) from 118 patients with carcinoma of the larynx, were reviewed. The aim of the investigation was to compare the histopathological data with the rate of recurrence to evaluate which factors were most significant in predicting recurrence. Epitome chi2 analysis of frequency tables using corrected Yates' values revealed significant association between the recurrence rate and the depth of tumor infiltration, the presence of tumor cells at the surgical margins and the pathological TNM (tumor, nodes, metastases) stage. Multiple regression analysis identified perineural and thyroid gland tumor infiltration, anatomical location of the primary tumor and depth of tumor infiltration as independent predictors of recurrence. The greater the number of poor prognostic factors, the higher the risk for recurrence. Exact histopathological investigations integrated with clinical examinations and close patient follow-up are important and should be supported by statistical analysis to give a prognostic basis for the selection and evaluation of the treatment.