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Patterns of head and neck sarcoma in Australia
Roger H Woods1,2, J Alexa Potter1, Jessica L Reid3
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
ANZ Journal of Surgery
|May 18, 2017
Summary
Head and neck sarcomas are more common in Australia than in Europe, particularly in older males. Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) of the skin is a growing concern, possibly linked to UV radiation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Head and neck sarcomas present complex management challenges due to anatomical, aesthetic, and oncological factors.
- Incidence and presentation patterns of these sarcomas are not well-understood in Australia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and demographic patterns of head and neck sarcomas in the Australian population.
- To provide a comprehensive review of head and neck sarcoma data from 1982-2009.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Australian National Cancer Registry (1982-2009).
- Included 3911 cases classified using ICD-O-3 (International Classification of Diseases for Oncology, 3rd edition).
Main Results:
- Recorded 3911 new cases of head and neck sarcoma between 1982-2009.
- Annual incidence rate was 1.59 per 100,000 population, increasing in individuals aged 65+ and predominantly affecting males (69%).
- Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) was the most common type, with a notable rise in skin-origin sarcomas among elderly males.
Conclusions:
- Australian head and neck sarcoma incidence exceeds European rates.
- Increased skin MFH in elderly males suggests ultraviolet radiation as a potential factor, similar to melanoma.
- Complex head and neck sarcomas necessitate management within specialist multidisciplinary teams.
