Distribution of blood flow in an experimental palatal carcinoma

Tumor perfusion is an important factor in the success of many common and potential therapeutic and diagnostic modalities. We studied blood flow of an experimental squamous cell carcinoma of the rat palate using the radionuclide-labeled microsphere injection method. Tumors (N = 14) were studied for level and distribution of blood flow, and changes in blood flow with increasing size. The results show a wide variation in the absolute level of perfusion among the tumors, but a consistent pattern of blood flow distribution, with poor perfusion in the central parts and a sharp increase in perfusion at the periphery. The blood flow (in mL/min/100 g) in the five zones from center to periphery were 2.32 +/- 5.7, 5.62 +/- 16.3, 4.20 +/- 6.87, 15.04 +/- 23.6, and 32.31 +/- 41.8. The average level of perfusion decreased as tumor size increased, but the pattern of blood flow distribution remained constant. The data from this study provide an understanding of the basic pattern of blood flow in an experimental squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, and will serve as a foundation to further explore the hemodynamic characteristics of head and neck carcinomas.