Head and neck sarcomas: a review

J Otolaryngol. 1996 Feb;25(1):7-13.

Abstract

Sarcomas of the head and neck are rare. They present a challenge to the head and neck oncologist that is frequently quite different from that found in epithelial, salivary, and endocrine malignancies of the head and neck. The focus of this article is on diagnostic criteria, prognostic indicators, and therapy, and due to the large number of lesions, an in-depth review of the commonest: osteosarcoma (OS), chondrosarcoma (CS), rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), fibrosarcoma (FS), malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH), and synovial sarcoma (SS). Less common variants will also be mentioned. Twelve cases are presented, consisting of OS(2), RMS(1), CS(3), MFH(2), SS(2), FS(1), and miscellaneous(1). Conclusions consist of an enunciation of the general principles of management of sarcoma of the head and neck.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / therapy
  • Histiocytoma, Benign Fibrous / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prognosis
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma / diagnosis
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma / etiology
  • Sarcoma / diagnosis
  • Sarcoma / etiology