Metastatic tumors to the jaws and oral cavity.

Observations of the incidence of MT from distant organs and tissues to the maxillofacial region are presented on the basis of 13 cases (3.2% of the total number of patients with malignant tumors). Metastatic carcinomas are most frequently found in the mandible (61.5%). The primary locus is usually the breast, kidney, bronchus, or thyroid gland (61.5%), the diagnosis of metastasis aided in localization of the primary tumor. Successful results of radical treatment were obtained in only two cases; they survived for three and 11 years. The other 11 patients died within two months to a year. The function of maxillofacial surgeons in discovering primary and metastatic tumors of the jaws and face is emphasized.