Perineural Invasion in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck

Abstract
THE PERINEURAL space is a recognized route for extension of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Outcome of patients with SCC of the skin,1,2 lip,3 and oral cavity4-7 is adversely affected by the presence of perineural invasion (PNI), and PNI of major (named) nerves is associated with locoregional recurrence and decreased survival in patients with SCC of the upper aerodigestive tract.8