Prevalence and prognostic impact of retropharyngeal lymph nodes metastases in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: Meta-analysis of published literature.

ABSTRACT:

Background

This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to estimate the prevalence and prognostic impact of retropharyngeal lymph node metastases (RLNMs) in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Methods

This meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines.

Inclusion criteria

studies with more than 20 patients reporting the prevalence or prognostic impact of RLNMs in OPSCC. Whenever available, data on HPV status and subsites were extracted.

Results

Twenty-two articles were included. The overall prevalence of RLNMs in OPSCC was 13%, with no significant differences depending on HPV status. The highest prevalence was observed for posterior pharyngeal wall SCC (24%), followed by soft palate (17%), palatine tonsil (15%), and base of tongue (8%).

SUBMITTER: Tirelli G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9540534 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature