Distribution of Metastatic Lymph Nodes in Oropharyngeal Carcinoma and Its Implications for the Elective Treatment of the Neck

Abstract
THE PRESENCE of cervical lymph node metastases is the most significant prognostic factor in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the upper aerodigestive tract. The 5-year survival rate in patients with neck metastases decreases according to the number and level of the nodes involved, and if capsular rupture is present.1-4 These findings confirm that the histologic status of lymph nodes correlates with long-term survival rates, and that treatment of the neck is crucial in the management of these patients.