Case Study on Oropharyngeal Cancer Prediction and Diagnosis and Management Based upon MRI, CT Scan Imaging Techniques

Abstract

Introduction: The extensive use of all the imaging techniques in biomedical sciences is well known. Diagnostic imaging techniques contribute to decreasing the causes of injuries and illnesses, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography scan techniques are used in this procedure to provide a correct diagnosis. These imaging methods allow physicians to take an “image” of the bones, cartilage, muscles, internal organs, ligaments, tendons, and nerves inside the patient’s body. This is a way a physician can use photographs to analyze abnormalities observed in a patient. Need of Study: Diagnostic imaging techniques that can help reduce the causes of an accident or sickness while also increasing diagnostic accuracy include X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This case study demonstrates the need to include these imaging techniques in the diagnosis of oropharyngeal cancer. The step-by-step use of diagnostic procedures, including radiological imaging techniques for appropriate diagnosis and treatment of the stages and patterns of cancer, is explained in the given case study. Objectives: The goal of this case study is to assess the importance of various imaging techniques in oropharyngeal cancer diagnosis and treatment outcomes in a step-by-step manner through a patient’s case reports so that the practical aspects of each technique can be understood. Case Study: A 44-year-old male patient with addictions to alcohol, tobacco, and related products presented to an ENT specialist at Kamalnayan Bajaj Hospital, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, for a checkup on January 1, 2019. X-ray examination revealed a nonhealing homogeneously enhancing ulceration of the buccal mucosa. The ulceration then progressed to an enhancing mass lesion with involvement of gingivobuccal sulcus. The line of diagnosis was set as “clinicoradiological correlation”. The radiological imaging technique used for the diagnosis of the medical problem was a contrast enhanced computerized tomography (CECT) scan of the neck region. The reports suggested the features of neoplastic etiology. Following this, clinical specimen cells of the affected area were sent for a biopsy study; the reports obtained confirmed it as oropharyngeal cancer involving squamous cell carcinoma of right buccal mucosa grade I. Firstly, the patient underwent a right hemimandibulectomy with right neck dissection to remove the tumor surgically. The patient was started with a treatment regimen of chemotherapy to treat the cancer. After chemotherapeutic treatment, the patient went under radiation therapy. Timely CT scan techniques helped doctors to analyze the recovery process. The end of treatment was confirmed by clinicoradiological correlation by CECT scan on February 28, 2020, and the complete recovery of the patient was noted. Conclusion: From the whole case study of the patient with oropharyngeal cancer, it can be concluded that imaging techniques help in several ways in step-by-step analysis of diagnosis and treatment outcomes in cancer.