Cancer of the tonsil

One hundred and twenty-two patients with cancer of the tonsil presented at the University of British Columbia Cancer Control Agency between 1970-80. The results of treatment are reviewed. Eight-six patients (70.5%) were treated with radiotherapy alone. The overall three year corrected survival rate is 54.4% and the five year corrected survival rate is 45.6%. Local control varied from 86% (T1 lesions) to 47.5% (T3 lesions). Nodal disease was present in 65%. Recurrences developed in 55.8% of the patients. Salvage surgery was performed in 15 patients with a success rate of 39%. When compared to a study in 1977, results are improved. We feel that this was due to more standardized treatment, improved salvage surgery, and improved radiation therapy. Findings in this study indicate that primary radiotherapy with salvage surgery is a satisfactory treatment approach for patients with cancer of the tonsil.