Epidermoid carcinoma of the mouth and pharynx at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1965 to 1969.

One thousand thirty-four cases of epidermoid carcinoma of the mouth and pharynx were seen by the Head and Neck Service of Memorial Hospital during a recent 5 year period, 1965 to 1969. The 656 determinate cases previously untreated offer a clear basis for evaluation of the 5 year results of treatment, which as surgical in 90 percent of the cases. Preoperative radiotherapy was used in 130 cases. Preoperative radiotherapy was used in 130 cases, matched with 126 untreated cases. Etiologic factors are discussed. The presence and degree of lymph node metastasis are of paramount significance. Indications for elective treatment of the clinically negative neck are discussed in terms of anatomic, logistic and statistical principles. An analysis of failure point toward a continuing effort at combined therapy in this regional disease.