Recurrent squamous cell carcinoma in the neopharynx treated successfully with topical 5-fluorouracil.

Abstract

We present the first reported case of a squamous cell carcinoma recurrence on a reconstructed flap in the pharynx treated successfully with topical chemotherapy. The patient, treated for a pharyngeal cancer with resection and reconstruction with a free radial forearm flap, and post-operative radiotherapy, developed a tumour on the flap more than two years after surgery. The recurrence was also squamous carcinoma, but there was only superficial infiltration. This was treated with 5-fluorouracil paste placed in the pharynx, with resolution of the tumour. The patient was alive and well more than 28 months after this treatment, with no sign of disease recurrence. Topical chemotherapy for treatment of oral cancer is well described for early disease, but we show that it may be a useful treatment in recurrent disease in selected patients.

• Authors: Rupan Banga, James Ramsden, Graham Cox
• Journal: The Journal of laryngology and otology (J Laryngol Otol) Vol. 119 Issue 5 Pg. 403-4 (May 2005) ISSN: 0022-2151 [Print] England
• PMID: 15949109 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic
• Fluorouracil

Topics

• Administration, Topical
• Aged
• Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic (administration & dosage)
• Carcinoma, Squamous Cell (drug therapy)
• Fluorouracil (administration & dosage)
• Humans
• Male
• Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
• Pharyngeal Neoplasms (drug therapy)
• Treatment Outcome