Prognostic relevance of DNA image cytometry in oral cavity carcinomas.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the relation of DNA content of squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity to clinicopathologic features by image cytometry.


METHODS
A series of 52 patients with operable oral cavity carcinomas at stage T1-4 and NO-3 were studied. The tumors were classified according to the TNM classification and graded histopathologically.


RESULTS
A positive correlation between tumor size and ploidy status was observed. There was a significant correlation between ploidy status and histologically proven existence of cervical lymph node metastases (61% nondiploid versus 29% diploid, P < .03). A relationship between histopathologic grade and ploidy status could not be proven. The cumulative five-year survival rate among patients with diploid DNA findings as opposed to those with nondiploid findings was significantly increased (P < .03).


CONCLUSIONS
When assessing the prognosis of squamous cell carcinomas, DNA cytometry analysis can be used as an additional method. The significantly higher N stage, a higher frequency of metastases and a significantly lower survival rate with nondiploid tumors underline the importance of this examination method.
Schimming
R
R
Department of Maxillo-Facial Surgery, Dresden University of Technology, Germany.
Hlawitschka
M
M
Haroske
G
G
Eckelt
U
U
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001706:Biopsy; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000473:pathology*; D002467:Cell Nucleus / Q000473:pathology*; D004273:DNA, Neoplasm; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009062:Mouth Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D011003:Ploidies; D011379:Prognosis
D004273:DNA, Neoplasm