Olfactory neuroblastoma: a retrospective clinicopathologic study

The clinical course of olfactory neuroblastoma was not predictable by histologic criteria. Local recurrences were common (62%) and were often treated with multiple surgical procedures and radiation therapy. Metastatic neoplasm occurred in 28% of the patients. The recurrence-free interval decreased in those patients treated with radiation therapy initially, compared with those who had surgery initially. It is justifiable with respect to this study to treat disease in stages A and B with surgery and to reserve radiation therapy for recurrence. Stage C disease should be treated with combined therapy. Craniofacial resection should be promoted.