Regional metastases of squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip

Abstract

Lower lip squamous cell carcinoma is the most common oral carcinoma. In relation to other oral carcinomas, it has a better clinical course. If regional metastases appear, lower lip carcinoma has a very poor prognosis. This study included patients treated for lower lip squamous cell carcinoma in the period 1984-2001. We examined neck metastases and time of their appearance after operation of the primary neoplasm. Our retrospective study included 305 patients with lower lip carcinoma in a twelve-year period. Out of this number, 293 had no positive neck lymph nodes, and only 12 patients had (4%). More than 75% of metastases appeared in the first year after surgery of the primary neoplasm. Contra-lateral metastases were most common. Taking into consideration the percentage of metastases, particularly during the first year after surgery, we suggest identification of sentinel lymph nodes and depending on PH finding one should decide about the type of neck operation. Frequent check-ups are necessary, especially during the first year.