Squamous cell carcinomas metastatic to cervical lymph nodes from an unknown head and neck mucosal site treated with radiation therapy with palliativeintent

Minimal information has been published about the results of palliative irra diation for squamous cell carcinoma metastatic to cervical lymph nodes from an unknown head and neck primary site. Forty patients with this diagnosis were treated at the University of Florida with radiation therapy with palli ative intent. The nodal response rate was 65% and the symptomatic response rate was 57% at 1 year. The absolute survival rate was 25% at 1 year, as wa s the cause-specific survival rate. Radiotherapy successfully palliates mon than half of those treated. Approximately one fourth are alive 1 year afte r irradiation. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.