Outcome of surgery for adenoid cystic carcinoma of head and neck region

Abstract

Introduction: Adenoid cystic carcinoma is an uncommon malignant epithelial tumour of salivary glands. The treatment of choice for these tumours is considered by some to be radical surgery, combined in many centres with postoperative radiotherapy. The goal of such treatment is local control and preservation of function.

Aims: The aim of the retrospective study was to analyse the results of surgery for patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma treated at the Institute of Oncology in Gliwice during the period of 1970-1989.

Material: The analysed group includes 47 patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma. All patients underwent macro- and microscopically proven radical resection of the primary lesion located in major or minor salivary glands.

Results: Five- and 10-year survival rate was 85% and 47%, respectively, and 5-year disease-free survival rate was 79%. As the group of patients treated with surgery and radiotherapy was too small (nine cases), the results of combined treatment were not analysed. Local recurrence after surgery occurred in 21% of patients in different time intervals (even as long as 10 years after completion of treatment).

Conclusion: High risk of local recurrence after surgery suggests that postoperative radiotherapy should always be given. Late development of local recurrences suggests that follow-up should be for a minimum of 10 years.