Head and neck sarcomas: clinical and histopathological presentation, treatment modalities, and outcomes

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Sarcoma of the head and neck is a rare condition that poses significant challenges in management and often requires radical multimodality treatment. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to analyse current clinical presentation, evaluation, management dilemmas and oncological outcomes. METHODS: Computer records and case notes were analysed, and 39 patients were identified. Variables were compared using Pearson's chi-square test and the log-rank test, while survival outcomes were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS: The histopathological diagnosis was Kaposi sarcoma in 20.5 per cent of cases, chondrosarcoma in 15.3 per cent and osteosarcoma in 10.2 per cent. A range of other sarcomas were diagnosed in the remaining patients. The site of disease was most commonly sinonasal, followed by the oral cavity and larynx. CONCLUSION: Wide local excision with clear resection margins is essential to achieve local control and long-term survival. There is a need for cross-specialty collaboration in order to accrue the evidence which will be necessary to improve long-term outcomes.