Predictors of Extracapsular Spread in T1/T2 Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A retrospective study

Abstract

Introduction: In the N0 neck the incidence of ECS might range from 13 to 60%. In this retrospective study we intended at evaluating the primary tumor and nodal characteristics that might influence the presence of ECS in early stage OSCC. Methods: The predictor variables were tumor and nodal features and the incidence of ENE was the outcome. Univariate and multivariate regression models along with ROC curve and Youden's J statistics was used for analysis. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The cut off value for DOI was 6.5 mm and LN size was 12.5 mm with overall accuracy of 80.15% and 84.93% respectively. Primary tumor features and LN size was significantly associated with ENE. Discussion: Oral tongue tumors and PNI are independent risk factors for ENE. An elective neck dissection remains the standard of care from both diagnostic and therapeutic viewpoints.

Keywords

• ENE
• ECS
• N0 neck