T3-4 squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx treated with radiation therapy alone

This article reviews the results of radiation therapy alone for T3-4 squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx. Local control after radiation therapy is approximately 65% for patients with T3 glottic and supraglottic carcinoma. The likelihood of local control is inversely related to tumor volume and, for those with glottic cancers, is adversely influenced by cartilage sclerosis on pretreatment computed tomography of the larynx. Local control after radiotherapy is approximately 60% for T4 glottic cancers and 50% for T4 supraglottic carcinomas. The probability of severe complications is related to primary site and T-stage.