Histopathological prognosticators in oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

Histopathological assessment of the surgical resection specimen continues to provide information that is central to determining the post-operative treatment needs and prognosis for an individual patient with oral/oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. This review describes the prognostic value of histopathological features related to the primary tumour and the cervical lymph nodes, and considers their relative merits. In addition, a brief overview of more general patient factors is included. Throughout the review, guidance is offered on practical aspects of the histopathological assessment together with brief mention of potential inaccuracies. Emphasis is given also to the importance of the partnership between the surgeon and the pathologist, the need for standardisation during all stages of the histopathological assessment, and the value of accurate documentation of the findings.