Screening tests to evaluate distant metastases in head and neck cancer

Investigation for distant metastases is part of the staging process of a pr imary tumor or recurrent disease before treatment. The lung is the most fre quent site followed by bone and liver. Advanced stage and cervical metastas es are the most important predictors of metastases. Almost all distant meta stases are associated with lung metastases. Computed tomography scan of the chest is the single most effective investigation. The value of routine scr eening tests is questionable and merits further investigation. Copyright (C ) 2001 S.Karger AG, Basel.