Squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity

This paper describes the treatment of squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity in patients referred to the multidisciplinary clinics at the Princess Margaret Hospital. The majority of squamous cell carcinomas at this site involve the tongue and floor of mouth. One third have clinically abnormal cervical nodes at the time of presentation, and a further third are believed to have subclinical node involvement. Small superficial carcinomas are usually treated by simple excision. Approximately one quarter of the patients have tumors so extensive that only palliative treatment is possible. Most patients are treated by initial irradiation and surgery is reserved for those with residual or recurrent carcinoma. The basis for this policy and the results achieved in the treatment of oral cavity tumors are discussed. The overall adjusted five year survival for all patients is approximately 50%.