Carcinoma of the nasopharynx

Carcinoma of the nasopharynx usually presents with widespread regional lymph node metastases, and there is frequently damage to important midline structures. The management of these patients in the multidisciplinary clinics of The Princess Margaret Hospital is outlined. Radiation therapy remains the mainstay of treatment. Experimental approaches combining chemotherapy and radical radiation therapy are being introduced. The results of treatment by radiation therapy in 140 patients seen in the period 1970-76 are reviewed. The overall five year survival rate (all causes) is 37%. Distant metastatic disease is present at relapse in 20%. Prognosis correlated generally with extent of disease by TNM staging.