Simultaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck and reticuloendothelial malignancies

Abstract

Background: Multiple primary neoplasms have been reported in 4% to 26% of patients with a squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the head and neck. The vast majority of these second primaries are SCC and occur in the upper aerodigestive tract; however, head and neck SCC patients are also at higher risk for nonepidermoid neoplasms at any site. Reticuloendothelial malignancies (REM) have been reported in many patients that have SCC of the head and neck as well. Methods: Retrospective case series of 5 advanced cases of SCC of the head and neck with synchronous REM. Results: There was 40% mortality with 19.4 months mean follow-up. Fifty percent of the cases had simultaneous cervical involvement with both processes. Conclusion: REM can occur simultaneously with SCC of the head and neck and confound staging of nodal status. Head and neck SCC patients are at increased risk for REM secondary to age and treatment factors.