Radiation therapy of malignant parotid tumours
Tepmongkol, P.
Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand 64(4): 174-179
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0125-2208 PMID: 6265576 Document Number: 168842
The natural history and the results of radiation treatment were studied retrospectively in 59 patients with malignant parotid tumors. Epidermoid carcinoma and undifferentiated carcinoma showed a relatively higher incidence of lymph node metastases than other types. Undifferentiated carcinoma and adenocarcinoma showed a significantly high incidence of distant metastases. The adenocarcinoma seemed to be more responsive to radiation than other types; the malignant mixed tumor appeared to be the least responsive; 74% showed immediate good response. The 3- and 5-yr survivals were 39 and 9%, respectively. Malignant parotid tumors evidently are of moderate radiosensitivity; radiotherapy plays a role in their treatment. Postoperative irradiation should be routinely considered for adenocarcinoma, undifferentiated carcinoma and epidermoid carcinoma.