Osteosarcoma of the head and neck region: Lessons learned from a single‐institution experience of 50 patients

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Osteosarcoma of the head and neck region is a rare tumor and is a therapeutic challenge because of its aggressive nature and complex anatomical location. Standard management guidelines are lacking due to paucity of published data. METHODS: Fifty patients with head and neck osteosarcoma treated at our institute from 1995 to 2004 were reviewed. RESULTS: There were 32 men and 18 women (median, 30 years). Mandible (56%) was the most common site. Chondroblastic (46%) was the most common histopathological variant. Treatment comprised multimodality approach using surgery (100%), radiotherapy (36%), and chemotherapy (58%). After a median follow-up of 16.6 months, 46% were alive and disease free. Median overall survival was 45.7 months, and progression-free survival was 13.7 months. Mandible and maxilla were favorable sites. Postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy improved local control in patients with adverse prognostic factors. CONCLUSIONS: Surgery remains the mainstay of the treatment of head and neck osteosarcoma. Adjuvant radiotherapy improves outcome in patients with adverse factors.