Prognostic relevance of DNA image cytometry in oral cavity carcinomas
R Schimming1, M Hlawitschka, G Haroske
1Department of Maxillo-Facial Surgery, Dresden University of Technology, Germany.
Objective:
To evaluate the relation of DNA content of squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity to clinicopathologic features by image cytometry.
Study Design:
A series of 52 patients with operable oral cavity carcinomas at stage T1-4 and NO-3 were studied. The tumors were classified according to the TNM classification and graded histopathologically.
Results:
A positive correlation between tumor size and ploidy status was observed. There was a significant correlation between ploidy status and histologically proven existence of cervical lymph node metastases (61% nondiploid versus 29% diploid, P < .03). A relationship between histopathologic grade and ploidy status could not be proven. The cumulative five-year survival rate among patients with diploid DNA findings as opposed to those with nondiploid findings was significantly increased (P < .03).
Conclusion:
When assessing the prognosis of squamous cell carcinomas, DNA cytometry analysis can be used as an additional method. The significantly higher N stage, a higher frequency of metastases and a significantly lower survival rate with nondiploid tumors underline the importance of this examination method.
