18F–FDG PET/CT scan confirmed by pathology findings in a singular case of squamous cell carcinoma of the epiglottis

Abstract

Abstract Background Only about 1% of all head and neck lateral or paramedian cancers described in the scientific literature shows, in staging, contralateral cervical adenopathy without ipsilateral pathological involvement of lymph nodes. Case Presentation This case is one of them, in which 18F–FDG PET/CT scan is confirmed by pathology findings, and has correctly identified all metastatic disease foci. Conclusions To date, PET/CT is not recommended in head and neck cancer staging. However, the use of PET/CT in head and neck cancer staging can define possible metastatic disease foci, clarify c.e. CT suspicious findings and, in some cases, change the TNM stage, with a strong prognostic and therapeutic impact.