The role of radiation therapy in treatment of malignant tumors of the paranasal sinuses

Abstract

During a 20 year period, 121 patients with malignant tumors of the paranasal sinuses were seen at this institution. Of these cases, 109 patients with carcinomas originating from the mucous or paranasal sinuses were evaluated. Data were analyzed on the basis of 1. primary tumor control and metastatic nodal sterilization, 2. pre and post‐therapy incidence and location of neck node metastasis, and 3. overall survival. Data were also analyzed as to survival on the basis of TNM classification and histology.From this retrospective study, the incidence of neck node metastasis prior to treatment appears to be slightly higher than in literature (23/88 or 26%). The incidence of post‐treatment metastasis is 9/88 or 10%. No significant correlation was noted between histology and neck node metastasis.