Neck Node Levels Research Articles

The boundary of posterior to level V region and the theoretical feasibility of irradiation dose reduction of level Va in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

The lymph node involvement in the posterior to level V (PLV) region is mainly observed in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Recently, we have reported the distribution of metastatic lymph nodes in the PLV region and there are correlations between the neck node levels (NNL) of NPC, but what is the boundary of the PLV region and how to delineate it remains unclear, and we further to elaborate whether the bilateral level Va should be covered as intermediate-risk nodal regions (CTVn2, about 60 Gy equivalent) for all T and N categories based on these correlations. A total of 1021 consecutive NPC patients with N1-3 stage from January 2012 to December 2020 were reviewed. The lymph node metastasis level of each patient was evaluated according to the updated guidelines proposed in 2013. According to the distribution pattern of lymph node metastasis and the anatomical structure in the PLV region, the boundaries of PLV region was delineated, and whether it is appropriate to cover the bilateral level Va as CTVn2 for all the NPC patients was further discussed. The correlations of level Va with other NNL were studied using logistic regression model. The cranial boundary of PLV region is the caudal border of cricoid cartilage, the caudal boundary is the plane serratus anterior muscle begins to appear, the anterior boundary is the anterior border of trapezius, and the posterior boundary is the convergence of levator scapulae and trapezius. Laterally, the PLV region is limited by the medial edge of trapezius and medially by the lateral surface of levator scapulae. The nodal spread in level Va is based on the lymph node metastasis of level IIb in NPC. The PLV region is a missing NNL of head and neck tumors, especially in NPC. The proposed boundaries of the PLV region can provide a preliminary proposal for the further revision of NNL in head and neck tumors. It is theoretically feasible to reduce the prophylactic irradiation dose of the bilateral level Va in patients with N0 stage or with isolated metastases in level VIIa.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nasopharyngeal carcinoma extent at FDG PET/MR staging: The NPCOVIPET study.

To evaluate the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on disease extent in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) using 18 fuorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This retrospective cohort study included biopsy-proven, newly diagnosed NPC patients using whole-body FDG PET/MR staging in two selected intervals: 1 May 2017 to 31 January 2020 (Group A, the pre-COVID-19 period), and 1 February 2020 to 30 June 2021 (Group B, the COVID-19 period). Three-hundred and ninety patients were included. No significant difference was observed in terms of T classification, N classification, overall stage, N stations, and M stations between the two groups (p > 0.05). For the involved neck node levels, more patients had developed level Vc metastasis in the group B (p = 0.044). Although the overall stage was not affected, more patients with NPC had developed level Vc metastasis in the era of COVID-19.

Delineation of neck node levels for patients with locally advanced supraglottic cancer receiving radical intensity-modulated radiotherapy: across-sectional study in MainlandChina.

Background: To survey the diversity of clinical target volumes (CTVs) for locally advanced supraglottic cancer (LA-SGC) with radical radiotherapy in mainland China. Methods: Radiation oncologists from 30 provinces and four representative cases (T2N1, T3N2b, T4N0, T4N2c) were included. Results: High risk (HR)-CTV included involved and the lower adjacent level was followed by most physicians (n=160, 97.6%). In the N0-1 stage, whether contralateral levels II-III should be included in HR- or low risk (LR)-CTV was controversial. In the N2 stage, the bilateral levels II-IVb were included in LR-CTV (75-92.5% agreement). Levels Ib, V or VIb were included in CTV requiring certain conditions. Conclusion: Involved and lower adjacent levels were as HR-CTV. Whether bilateral levels II-IV are included in HR- or LR-CTV remaincontroversial.

Locoregional Extension Patterns of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Detected by FDG PET/MR.

PurposeWe sought to define the locoregional extension patterns of nasopharyngeal carcinomas (NPCs) by positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to improve clinical target volume (CTV) delineation.MethodsBetween May 2017 and March 2021, 331 consecutive patients with nonmetastatic NPCs who underwent pretreatment, simultaneous whole-body PET/MRI for staging were included in this study.ResultsThe high-risk regions included the base of the sphenoid bone, the prestyloid compartment, prevertebral muscle, foramen lacerum, medial pterygoid plate, sphenoidal sinus, clivus, petrous apex, and foramen ovale. When the high-risk regions were invaded, the incidence rates of tumor invasion into the medium-risk regions increased. In contrast, when the high-risk regions were not involved, the incidence rates of tumor invasion into the medium-risk regions were mostly less than 10%, excluding the post-styloid compartment and oropharynx. According to the updated consensus guidelines of the neck node levels for head and neck tumors from 2013, level IIa (77.3%, 256/331), level IIb (75.8%, 251/331), and level VIIa (71.3%, 236/331) were the most frequently involved levels, followed by levels III (42.6%), Va (13.9%), IVa (8.8%), IVb (3.6%), Ib (3.6%), Vb (2.4%), VIIb (2.4%), VIII (1.8%), Vc (0.9%), and Xa (0.3%). Skip lymph node metastasis occurred in only 1.9% of patients.ConclusionsFor NPCs, primary disease and regional lymph node spread follow an orderly pattern, and a skip pattern of lymph node metastasis was unusual. Involved level radiotherapy might be feasible for cervical lymph node levels below the caudal border of cricoid cartilage and level VIIb.

Correlation analysis of neck node levels in 960 cases of Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC)

PurposeThe delineation of intermediate risk nodal regions (CTVn2) and low-risk nodal regions (CTVn3) base on the correlation analysis between neck node levels of NPC has not been reported. We aim to analyze the correlations between different neck node levels in 960 cases of NPC, and to provide preliminary suggestions for clinical target volume (CTV) delineation of NPC base on the correlation analysis. Methods and materialsWe retrospectively analyzed the records of 960 NPCs in our institution from 2011 to 2019. Diagnostic head and neck CTs and MRIs were reviewed. The involvements of nodal levels were evaluated according to the 2013 updated guidelines. The correlations between different levels were studied using Chi-square test and logistic regression model. ResultsThe top four levels with the highest rate of lymph node metastasis were VIIa(86.35%), IIb(84.06%), IIa(62.29%), and III(47.29%). Correlation analysis showed that lymph node metastasis in level Ib was correlated with levels IIa and III. Level IIa was correlated with levels Ib, IIb, III, and Va. Level IIb was correlated with levels IIa, III, Va, and VIIa. Level III was correlated with levels IIa, IIb, IVa, Va, Vb, VIIa, and T stage. Level IVa was correlated with levels III, IVb, and Va. Level IVb was only correlated with level IVa. Level Va was correlated with levels IIb, III, IVa, Vb, and posterior to level V (PLV region). Level Vb was correlated with levels III, Va, Vc, and PLV region. Level Vc was correlated with levels IVb, Vb, and PLV region. Level VIIa was correlated with levels IIb and III. Level VIIb had no correlations with other levels. Level VIII was correlated with levels Ib and IVb. The PLV region was correlated with levels Va, Vb, and Vc. All the above P values were <0.05. ConclusionsThis study recommends setting the related levels as CTVn2 and the unrelated levels as CTVn3. The levels of nodal spread are different in NPC patients, this study reflects the principle of individualized CTV delineation.

Incidence of Occult Lymph Node Metastasis in Primary Larynx Squamous Cell Carcinoma, by Subsite, T Classification and Neck Level: A Systematic Review.

Background: Larynx cancer is a common site for tumors of the upper aerodigestive tract. In cases with a clinically negative neck, the indications for an elective neck treatment are still debated. The objective is to define the prevalence of occult metastasis based on the subsite of the primary tumor, T classification and neck node levels involved. Methods: All studies included provided the rate of occult metastases in cN0 larynx squamous cell carcinoma patients. The main outcome was the incidence of occult metastasis. The pooled incidence was calculated with random effects analysis. Results: 36 studies with 3803 patients fulfilled the criteria. The incidence of lymph node metastases for supraglottic and glottic tumors was 19.9% (95% CI 16.4–23.4) and 8.0% (95% CI 2.7–13.3), respectively. The incidence of occult metastasis for level I, level IV and level V was 2.4% (95% CI 0–6.1%), 2.0% (95% CI 0.9–3.1) and 0.4% (95% CI 0–1.0%), respectively. For all tumors, the incidence for sublevel IIB was 0.5% (95% CI 0–1.3). Conclusions: The incidence of occult lymph node metastasis is higher in supraglottic and T3–4 tumors. Level I and V and sublevel IIB should not be routinely included in the elective neck treatment of cN0 laryngeal cancer and, in addition, level IV should not be routinely included in cases of supraglottic tumors.

Patterns of local extension and nodal involvement from 1300 nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients: An imaging-based predictor of distant metastases.

e17516 Background: Distant metastasis is a main determinant of prognosis in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma(NPC). We explored the patterns of disease spread in NPC patients and identified the pattern correlates with distant metastases. Methods: The imaging documents of 1300 consecutive newly diagnosed nasopharyngeal carcinoma between 2012 and 2016 were reviewed. According to the incidence rates of tumor invasion, the anatomic sites were classified into high-risk group (≥50%), medium-risk group (≥10%~ &lt; 50%) and low-risk group ( &lt; 10%). The location of lymph nodes was determined by 2013 updated guidelines for neck node levels. Additionally, we developed a novel classification based on tumor spreading patterns, as shown in Table. Moreover, we validated the prognostic accuracy of the classification in a validation cohort from a different institution, 241 non-metastatic NPC patients were retrospectively enrolled. Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were used to analyze all time-to-event data. Results: The incidence rates of tumor invasion were 0.2% ~91.2%, 95.2% cases across the midline. If anatomic sites in high-risk group or median-risk group were involved, the incidence rates in adjacent medium-risk sites or low-risk group were increased. On the contrary, the incidence rates were decreased when the adjacent high-risk sites or median-risk group were not involved. 85.9% cases had involved lymph nodes. Only 3.9% had skip metastases. The incidence rates of nodal involvement were increased when adjacent upper nodal level was involved. In validation cohort, distant metastases were present in 32/241 NPC patients (13.3%) and 3-year distant metastasis-free survival(DMFS) in local, superior, inferior, and mixed type were 95.0%, 91.3%, 89.0%, and 78.7%, respectively. Cumulative survival curves for former three patterns were relatively similar and were clearly separated from mixed type. DMFS was significantly lower for patients with mixed type pattern than for those with other patterns(P = 0.018). Conclusions: Local disease in NPC patients spreads stepwise from proximal sites to more distal sites. The frequency of metastases in the jugular lymph node chains decreased in the cranio-caudal direction. Based on the patterns of tumor extension, an imaging-based predictor of distant metastases was developed and may be used as a prognostic marker for selecting patients to further systemic treatments. [Table: see text]

Ultrasonographic Criteria to Define the Lower Limits of Neck Node Levels 2 and 3.

To find ultrasonographic landmarks to define the lower limits of neck node levels 2 and 3. Data were collected prospectively between February 2014 and January 2015. In total, 103 patients were recruited (50 men and 53 women), and the mean age was 50.9 years (range: 18-89). At the lower level of the hyoid, we classified ultrasonographic findings as hyoid type (HT)1 when the internal and external carotid arteries were visualized separately, HT2 when the internal and external carotid arteries joined together, and HT3 when the common carotid artery was visualized. At the lower border of the cricoid cartilage, we classified ultrasonographic findings as cricoid type (CT)1 when the omohyoid reached the medial half of the common carotid artery, CT2 when the omohyoid reached the lateral half of the common carotid artery, CT3 when the omohyoid reached the medial half of the internal jugular vein, and CT4 when the omohyoid reached the lateral half of the internal jugular vein. At the lower border of the hyoid, HT1 was most commonly observed in 59.2%, whereas HT2 and HT3 were observed in 31.3% and 9.7%, respectively. At the lower border of the cricoid cartilage, CT3 was most commonly observed in 52.9%, whereas CT2, CT4, and CT1 were observed in 20.4%, 14.1%, and 12.6%, respectively. HT1 and CT3 can be suggested ultrasonographic landmarks for the lower limits of levels 2 and 3, respectively. 2. Laryngoscope, 129:2487-2490, 2019.

Quantitative Metastatic Lymph Node Regions on Magnetic Resonance Imaging Are Superior to AJCC N Classification for the Prognosis of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma.

Purpose Quantitative lymph node burden has been demonstrated to be a critical prognosticator in various malignancies, yet it was seldom explored in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). This study aimed to investigate the impact of the number of metastatic lymph node regions (LRN) on prognosis of NPC and to establish a new N classification system based on LRN. Methods and Materials The magnetic resonance images (MRI) of 354 nondisseminated NPC patients before radical treatment were retrospectively evaluated. The regions with positive lymph nodes (LNs) were quantified according to 2013 updated guidelines for neck node levels. Prognostic value of LRN on distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) was analyzed using multivariable Cox model after adjusting for other nodal characteristics and therapeutic factors. Results LRN strongly correlated with the size, laterality, level, extracapsular extension (ECE), and necrosis of LNs. Risk of distant metastasis significantly escalated with increased LRN (P<0.001). 5-year DMFS for LRN 0-1, 2-6, and ⩾7 was 97.0%, 86.7%, and 69.7%, respectively. In multivariable Cox analysis, LRN (HR 2.45; 95% CI 1.55-3.88; P<0.001) and maximal LN diameter (MLD) >6cm (HR 4.11; 95% CI 2.23-7.56; P<0.001) were identified as independent predictors of DMFS. Laterality and level showed no prognostic significance when accounting for LRN. A novel N classification scheme was derived by recursive partitioning analysis based on LRN and MLD. Compared with the 7th and 8th edition of American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) systems, the new stratification exhibited better accuracy in predicting survivals. Conclusions LRN is a promising quantitative predictor of survival in NPC, eclipsing other classic LN characteristics in prognostic value. The simplified N classification scheme with LRN and MLD is predictive and practical, thus warranting further validation in future.

Patterns of Local Extension and Nodal Involvement From 1300 Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Patients Based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging

To clarify the biological behavior of nasopharyngeal carcinoma by exploring patterns of local extension and nodal involvement. To offer our suggestions for clinical target volume delineation. We retrospectively reviewed the imaging documents of 1300 consecutive cases of newly diagnosed nasopharyngeal carcinoma between January 2012 and December 2016. According to the incidence rates of tumor invasion, the anatomic sites were classified into three groups: high-risk group (≥50%), medium-risk group (≥10%∼<50%), low-risk group (<10%). The location of lymph nodes was determined based on the 2013 updated guidelines for neck node levels. Furthermore, we proposed a novel clinical classification according to patterns of local extension and nodal metastasis.Abstract MO_6_2508; Table 1Local TypeSuperior TypeInferior TypeMix Typeskull base and/or intracranial extension-+-+lymph nodes metastasis--++ Open table in a new tab The incidence rates of tumor invasion were between 0.2% and 91.2%. Local extension invaded across the midline in 95.2% cases. If anatomic sites in high-risk group or median-risk group were involved, the incidence rates of tumor invasion in adjacent medium-risk sites or low-risk group were increased. On the contrary, the incidence rates were decreased when the adjacent high-risk sites or median-risk group were not involved. 85.9% cases had involved lymph nodes. The frequency of skip metastases was only 3.9%. The necrosis rate of lymph nodes was 37.8% and the rate of extracapsular spread was 46.5%. The incidence rates of nodal involvement were increased when adjacent upper nodal level was involved. Among four clinical types, the mix type has the highest rate, reaching 40.5%. No significant correlation was found between T stage and nodal involvement (χ2=14.469，P=0.107). In patients presenting with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, local disease spreads stepwise from proximal sites to more distal sites. The invasion rates of medium-risk sites and low-risk sites are related to the involvement of adjacent high-risk and median-risk sites. The frequency of metastases in the jugular lymph node chains decreased in the cranio-caudal direction. Both solitary metastases and skip metastases are rare. The incidence rates of nodal metastasis are related to the involvement of adjacent upper nodal level. The most common clinical type of NPC is the invasion of skull bone, intracranial sites, along with neck node metastasis.

A Proposal of N Classification Based on Quantitative Metastatic Lymph Node Regions in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

To assess the prognostic importance of the absolute number of metastatic lymph node regions (NLR) in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), and to explore the feasibility of a new N classification system based on quantitative nodal regions. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of 358 patients with histologically diagnosed non-disseminated NPC were reviewed. Tumor characteristics regarding the 8th UICC/AJCC staging system were documented, as well as additional metastatic lymph node (LN) features including extranodal spread (ENS), central necrosis, nodal distribution and NLR. Following the 2013 consensus guideline for delineation of the neck node levels for head and neck tumors, LN regions were quantified by summing up the involved subunits of VIIa (retropharyngeal nodes), I, IIa, IIb, III, IVa, IVb, Va, Vb, Vc, VI, III, IX, X. Univariate and multivariable survival analyses were performed with Cox proportional hazards models to test the prognostic value of variables. NLR showed significant correlation to other LN characteristics and N stage by 8th UICC/AJCC system (P<0.001). Univariate analysis showed that all listed nodal variables were significantly related to overall survival (OS), distant metastasis free survival (DMFS) and disease free survival (DFS). After adjusting for clinical variables such as age, sex, treatment modality etc, multivariable models revealed that only NLR and maximum LN diameter (MLD)>6cm were significant predictors for DMFS, while T category and ENS were significant for OS; MLD>6cm, NLR and ENS were significant for DFS. Based on these variables N was then categorized into: N0, no lymph node metastasis; N1, NLR 1-3, without ENS; N2, NLR 4-9, or NLR 1-3 with ENS; N3, NLR≥10 or MLD>6cm. This classification showed good and stable concordance with DMFS, OS and DFS, compared to N staging system by 8th UICC/AJCC (Table 1). NLR, as a potential surrogate for quantitative LN tumor burden, is a predominant independent prognostic factor in NPC. Integration of quantitative nodal regions may simplify N staging and warrants further validation in future.Abstract MO_44_2892; Table 1Classification of N according to 8th edition of UICC/AJCC staging system and proposed system8th edition of N stageProposed N classificationN5y-DMFS, %5y-OS, %5y-DFS, %N5y-DMFS, %5y-OS, %5y-DFS, %N01009093.1N010093.193.1N19289.984.4N192.190.485.3N280.175.763.4N285.482.070.9N373.576.961.8N360.167.448.6Overall P<.0010.011<.001Overall P<.001<.001<.001Abbreviations: DMFS = distant metastasis free survival; OS = overall Survival; DFS = disease free survival. Open table in a new tab

Analysis of geometric variation of neck node levels during image-guided radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma: recommended planning margins.

To quantify the geometrical changes of each neck nodal level (NNL) and estimate the geometric planning target volume (PTV) margin during image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) for nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC). Twenty patients with locally advanced NPC underwent one planning computed tomography (CTplan) and 6 weekly repeat CT (CTrep) scans during chemoradiotherapy. Each CTrep was rigidly registered to the CTplan. All the NNLs were manually delineated in each transverse CT section. When comparing the NNL in CTrep with CTplan, their volumes, displacement of the center of the mass, and the shortest perpendicular distance (SPD) were automatically calculated. This was followed by calculation of the systematic and random errors, overlapping index (OI), and dice similarity coefficient (DSC). With PTVs isotropically expanded from NNL by 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 mm, they were compared with NNL itself; OI >0.95 was defined as the acceptable geometrical coverage. The Mann-Whitney test was used for statistical analysis. All volumes, OI, and DSC of the NNLs (not including level IA) showed a linear decrease over time throughout the treatment course. The volume of NNLs decreased by 1-6% in the first week and 10-21% in the sixth week. The mean SPD was 1.3-1.7 and 1.9-3.5 mm in the first and sixth week respectively. The DSCs for nodal level IB, II, III, and IV were >0.7 and that of level V was <0.7 throughout the treatment course. For level IA and VI, DSC was <0.7 after the 2nd week. To maintain the OI >0.95, 2-5 mm was needed to expand the different NNLs. The geometrical changes of each NNL are substantial and the necessary margin of 2-5 mm depended on individual NNL is needed to maintain geometrical coverage throughout the course of IGRT for NPC.

Histopathologically Positive Regional Neck Node Metastasis Among Patients with Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Objective: To determine the patterns of regional neck node metastasis in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma in Filipinos according to subsite and clinical stage, and to determine possible factors associated with level V involvement.&#x0D; Methods:&#x0D; Design: Retrospective Case Series&#x0D; Setting: Tertiary National University Hospital&#x0D; Participants: A chart review was conducted for patients diagnosed with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent laryngectomy with neck dissection from January 2011 to April 2015. Medical information obtained included demographics, clinical parameters, and histopathologic reports of nodal involvement. The rate and location of positive neck nodes was recorded according to clinical stage and primary subsite. Fisher exact test was used to determine significant risk factors for level V cervical lymph node involvement.&#x0D; Results: Of 56 patients included, most were male with an average age of 61 years. Most patients had cancer originating from the glottic subsite, with the majority being staged III and IVA according to the TNM classification. Histopathologically positive neck nodes were centered at levels II to IV. No significant association was seen between level V involvement and the studied clinicopathologic factors (age, sex, tumor differentiation, subsite involvement, involvement of other neck node levels).&#x0D; Conclusion: Cervical neck node levels II, III, and IV are the most commonly involved in neck dissection, with many being positive for nodal metastasis for these levels. Level V nodes may be removed when clinically positive, but elective neck dissection may exclude this level. The current practice of neck dissection appears to be appropriate in terms of selecting the most likely locations of metastatic spread. Further study is recommended, with a greater population and standardized levels of neck dissection.&#x0D; Keywords: laryngeal cancer, lymphatic metastasis, neck dissection, squamous cell carcinoma

Long-term outcome of definitive radiotherapy for cervical esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to identify the long-term clinical outcome of definitive radiotherapy using three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) for cervical esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (CESCC).MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 30 patients with CESCC [clinical stage I/II/III/IV(M1LYM); 3/2/12/13] (TNM 7th edition) who underwent definitive radiotherapy using 3DCRT between 2000 and 2014 in our institution. The median prescribed dose for the gross tumor and metastatic lymph nodes was 60 Gy. Twenty-six patients underwent elective nodal irradiation for the neck node levels III, IV, and VI and for upper mediastinal lymph nodes with a median dose of 40 Gy. Twenty-six patients underwent concurrent chemotherapy. Initial disease progression sites, locoregional control (LRC) rate, overall survival (OS) rate, and toxicities were retrospectively evaluated. A univariate analysis was performed to identify prognostic factors.ResultsWith a median follow-up of 110 months, the 5- and 10-year LRC rates were 43.7% and 37.4%, respectively. The 5- and 10-year OS rates were 48.3% and 40.2%, respectively. Locoregional, distant and both area accounted for 83%, 6% and 11% of the initial progression sites. Unresectable status and M1LYM were significantly associated with poor LRC (p < 0.05) and OS (p < 0.05). Grade 3 acute non-hematological toxicity occurred in 13.3% of patients. During the follow-up, patients without any disease progression did not need a permanent gastrostomy tube or tracheostomy. Late toxicity events, including hypothyroidism and cardiovascular disease, were observed; 5- and 10-year cumulative incidence rates of grade 2 hypothyroidism and ≥grade 3 cardiovascular disease were 31.6% and 62.5%, and 17.5% and 21.3%, respectively.ConclusionsDefinitive radiotherapy yields a cure for patients with CESCC while preserving their laryngopharyngeal function. The poor LRC rate in the advanced stage needs to be overcome for a better prognosis. As the incidence of radiation-induced hypothyroidism and cardiovascular disease was not low, long-term survivors should be followed up for these symptoms.

Laryngeal Cancer Neck Node Metastases: Patterns of Spread

Objective: To determine the patterns of neck node metastases of patients with laryngeal carcinoma in our institution.&#x0D; Methods:&#x0D; Design: Chart Review&#x0D; Setting: Tertiary Public Hospital&#x0D; Subjects: Records of thirty-eight (38) laryngeal cancer patients who underwent laryngectomy with neck dissection from January 2010 to January 2017 were considered.&#x0D; Results: Records of 34 laryngeal cancer patients with ages ranging from 45-72 years old were included. The most common subsite was the glottis, with 19 (55.88%) patients. The distribution of neck node metastases for all subsites were 0/64 (0%) for level I, 22/64 (34.37%) for level II, 12/64 (18.75%) for level III, 7/64 (10.93%) for level IV, 0/64 (0%) for level V, and 1/64 (1.56%) for level VI. Distributions of lymph nodes per subsite for supraglottic SCCA were 0 (0%) for level I, 3/22 (13.63%) for level II, 2/12 (16.66%) for level III, 1/7 (14.28%) for level IV, 0 (0%) for level V, and 0/1 (0%) for level VI. For glottic SCCA, they were 0 (0%) for level I, 12/22 (54.54%) for level II, 8/12 (66.66%) for level III, 3/7 (42.85%) for level IV, 0 (0%) for level V, and 1/1 (100%) for level VI; and for transglottic SCCA, they were 0 (0%) for level I, 7/22 (31.81%) for level II, 5/12 (41.66%) for level III, 3/7 (42.85%) for level IV, 0 (0%) for level V, and 0/1 (0%) for level VI.&#x0D; Conclusion: Our findings show that neck node levels II, III, and IV are most frequently affected in laryngeal carcinoma patients in our sample, and may guide recommendations for neck dissection in our institution.&#x0D; Keywords: Laryngeal Cancer, Metastases, Neck dissection, Supraglottic, Subglottic, Glottic, Transglottic

Distribution of lymph node metastasis from lymphoepithelial-like carcinoma of the parotid.

PurposeTo explore the distribution of node spread from lymphoepithelial-like carcinoma (LELC) of the parotid gland based on the 2013 updated guidelines for neck node levels.Results42 (58.3%) cases had metastatic nodes, all were localized at the ipsilateral neck. The detailed distribution was: level Ia 0, level Ib 6(14.3%), level II 34 (80.1%), level III 16 (38.1%), level IV 9 (21.4%), level V 7 (16.7%), level VI 0, level VII 0, level VIII 37 (88.1%), level IX 0, level Xa 2 (4.8%), and level Xb 0. Lymphadenopathy in level Ib, V and Xa was always accompanied with level II or level VIII nodal metastasis. No statistical significance was found in the incidence of nodal involvement between T1-2 and T3-4 tumors (57.4% versus 61.1%, p = 0.78).MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the surgical and imaging documents of 72 cases of LELC from the parotid gland between January 2004 and November 2015. All patients received contrast enhanced computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Parotid metastasis from nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) was excluded. Nodal status and distribution was evaluated by both pathologic reports and imaging studies.ConclusionsThis is the first description of topography of cervical nodal metastases from LELC of the parotid gland. Incidence of nodal involvement is high. Nodes at ipsilateral level VIII and II were most frequently involved, followed by level III, IV, V and Ib. Nodes in level Ia, VI and level VII were rarely seen.

Individualized Super Selective Nodal Radiation Therapy for Clinically Negative Lymph Nodes (cN0) in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients Based on Sentinel Node(s) Identification: A Prospective Phase 2 Study of SPECT/CT-guided Volume De-escalation

Due to a risk of 18% to 45% of occult metastases among the clinically free of nodes head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients, prophylactic neck irradiation is often mandatory. Based on international guidelines for the selection of the neck node levels, this prophylactic treatment still leads to unnecessary large irradiation of normal tissues because bilateral drainage is the rule in only 30% to 50% of individuals, and 15% to 30% of the tumors drain in unpredicted nodal basins. Sentinel lymph node (SLN) single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT/CT) lymphoscintigraphy makes it possible to individually predict cervical subregions requiring prophylactic irradiation in cN0 patients. This ongoing prospective phase 2 study analyzes its oncological safety. Twenty-one patients with newly diagnosed cN0 SCC of the oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, or hypopharynx were included. All patients were imaged with SPECT/CT after 99mTc nanocolloid injection around the tumor. The neck levels containing up to 4 hottest nodes were identified and selected for prophylactic irradiation (CTVn-LS) by volumetric modulated arc therapy. A comparative virtual planning was performed with volumes selected according to international guidelines (CTVn-IG). Migration was observed in all of the 21 patients (1 with gamma probe only) with an average of 2.7 sentinel nodes detected per patient. CTVn-LS was totally encompassed by CTVn-IG in all patients but 2 with an unpredicted drainage in retropharyngeal levels. On average, CTVn-LS and related planning target volume (PTV) were 2 times smaller than IG ones. This led to significant dose decrease in identified organs at risk as well as remaining volume at risk. With a median follow-up of 14 months, no regional relapse was observed, while 2 patients had a local one (9%). Currently, 3 patients have died (1 patient from geriatric degradation and 2 experienced fatal local relapse). SPECT/CT lymphoscintigraphy of SLN allows individualization of prophylactic node CTV in cN0 HNSCC patients eligible for definitive radiation therapy. Both CTV and PTV are significantly reduced, which results in a significant dose decrease in all identified organs at risk. At a median follow-up of 14 months, no regional relapse was observed, but further follow-up and recruitment are necessary to ensure the oncological safety.

Patterns of lymph node metastasis from nasopharyngeal carcinoma based on the 2013 updated consensus guidelines for neck node levels

PurposeTo explore patterns of node distribution in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) based on the 2013 updated guidelines for neck node levels. Methods and materialsWe retrospectively reviewed the imaging documents of 3100 cases of newly diagnosed NPC between January 2010 and January 2013. All patients received an MRI scan. The scan range extended from 2cm above the anterior clinoid process to the inferior margin of the sternal end of the clavicle. All MR images were evaluated by the multi-disciplinary treatment group of NPC. ResultsA total of 2679 (86.4%) cases had involved lymph nodes. The detailed distribution was: level Ia 0, level Ib 115 (4.3%), level IIa 1798 (67.1%), level IIb 2341 (87.4%), level III 1184 (44.2%), level IVa 350 (13.1%), level IVb 28 (1.0%), level Va,b 995 (37.1%), level Vc 49 (1.8%), level VI 0, level VIIa 2012 (75.1%), level VIIb 178 (6.6%), level VIII 53 (2.0%), level IX 2, level Xa 2, level Xb 3. Among patients with level VII involvement, only 6 (0.3%) were located at the medial group. Of the patients with level II disease, the upper borders of metastatic nodes in 25.9% cases were beyond the caudal edge of C1. Patients with level VIII, or IX, or X node metastasis were always with extensive ipsilateral lymphadenopathy, and the total number of involved nodes was ⩾6. There were 35 cases of lymphadenopathy beyond the range of the updated guidelines, located inside the trapezius muscles, but posterior to level V. ConclusionsThis is the first description of nodal spread patterns based on the updated consensus guidelines. Involvement of the retropharyngeal nodes was mainly located at the lateral group, the medial group was rarely seen. The suggested upper border of level II cannot fully cover all the involved level II nodes. The posterior level V border is not enough to cover all level V lymphadenopathies for NPC.

Delineation of the neck node levels for head and neck tumors: A 2013 update. DAHANCA, EORTC, HKNPCSG, NCIC CTG, NCRI, RTOG, TROG consensus guidelines

In 2003, a panel of experts published a set of consensus guidelines for the delineation of the neck node levels in node negative patients (Radiother Oncol, 69: 227–36, 2003). In 2006, these guidelines were extended to include the characteristics of the node positive and the post-operative neck (Radiother Oncol, 79: 15–20, 2006). These guidelines did not fully address all nodal regions and some of the anatomic descriptions were ambiguous, thereby limiting consistent use of the recommendations.In this framework, a task force comprising opinion leaders in the field of head and neck radiation oncology from European, Asian, Australia/New Zealand and North American clinical research organizations was formed to review and update the previously published guidelines on nodal level delineation.Based on the nomenclature proposed by the American Head and Neck Society and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and in alignment with the TNM atlas for lymph nodes in the neck, 10 node groups (some being divided into several levels) were defined with a concise description of their main anatomic boundaries, the normal structures juxtaposed to these nodes, and the main tumor sites at risk for harboring metastases in those levels. Emphasis was placed on those levels not adequately considered previously (or not addressed at all); these included the lower neck (e.g. supraclavicular nodes), the scalp (e.g. retroauricular and occipital nodes), and the face (e.g. buccal and parotid nodes). Lastly, peculiarities pertaining to the node-positive and the post-operative clinical scenarios were also discussed.In conclusion, implementation of these guidelines in the daily practice of radiation oncology should contribute to the reduction of treatment variations from clinician to clinician and facilitate the conduct of multi-institutional clinical trials.

Bilateral neck metastases in upper aero‐digestive tract cancer: Emphasis on the distribution of lymphatic metastases and prognostic implications

Bilateral neck metastases (BNM) in patients with upper aero-digestive tract cancer (UADTC) indicate a poor prognosis. However, the prognostic significance of involved neck node levels has not been determined clearly. In this study, the distribution of neck nodal metastasis and its impact on prognosis were investigated. Eighty-two previously untreated UADTC patients with BNM from 2000 to 2007 were included in these analyses. The pathology was mainly squamous cell carcinomas, including nasopharynx undifferentiated carcinoma and excluding salivary and thyroid carcinomas. The distribution and pattern of neck metastases and their prognostic significance were assessed, along with other clinical variables. BNM confined to the upper neck level (I-III) showed a lower rate of distant metastasis compared to BNM beyond I-III levels (13.6% vs. 47.4%, P = 0.001). There was a significant reduction in survival among patients with bilateral lower neck (IV-V) metastases on multivariate analysis (HR: 5.95, 95%CI: 1.51-23.43). However, multi-level involvement itself did not correlate with survival. Subgroup analysis (according to nasopharynx and non-nasopharynx cancer) also confirmed the strong trends of lower neck nodal involvement for poorer survival in both groups. BNM at lower neck nodes can be a significant prognostic factor for early systemic dissemination and worse prognosis in UADTC patients.