Pediatric mandibular malignancies: a comprehensive analysis of SEER data

Abstract

Mandibular malignancies are rare in the pediatric population and subsequently not well characterized. SEER 18 registry data was collected, applying age 0–18 years and ICD-O-3 code C41.1 (‘mandible’). Univariate Cox regression analysis was conducted, and hazard ratios (HR) were calculated for overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) according to patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and treatment. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were generated for OS and DSS. Sixty-four patients met the inclusion criteria. The median age at diagnosis was 13.0 years, and median survival was 8.7 years. Osteosarcoma was the most common histological diagnosis (n = 22). Sex, race, age (<13 vs ≥13 years), histological type, odontogenic origin, and treatment modality were found not to be associated with OS or DSS. The SEER stage ‘distant’ was significantly associated with an elevated HR of 6.28 for DSS (P = 0.027) and 5.29 for OS (P = 0.025). Kaplan–Meier survival curves demonstrated significantly lower 5-year DSS (P < 0.001) and OS (P < 0.001) for SEER ‘distant’ stage. This study includes the analysis of a large number of pediatric mandibular malignancies when compared to previous studies. ‘Distant’ stage was associated with decreased survival. Early clinical suspicion and diagnosis are paramount for improved survival.