Purpose: To evaluate the results of primary radiotherapy (RT) for squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal vestibule.
Methods and materials: A total of 56 patients with Stage T1 and T2 tumors (Wang classification) were treated with external beam RT (EBRT) with or without a boost using endocavitary brachytherapy. Of these, 32 were treated with EBRT and an additional boost with intermediate-dose-rate brachytherapy, 15 with EBRT and a boost with high-dose-rate brachytherapy, and 9 with EBRT alone.
Results: The local control rate at 2 years was 80%. Most cases could be successfully salvaged with surgery, resulting in an ultimate local control rate of 95%. No statistically significant differences were noted among the different treatment approaches. Of the 56 patients, 12% developed lymph node metastases.
Conclusion: Primary RT is an adequate treatment for Stage T1 and T2 squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal vestibule with excellent cosmetic results. The radiation technique used depends on the primary tumor extension and the experience of the treating radiation oncologist. In the case of N0 disease, elective treatment of the regional lymph nodes is not recommended.