Esthesioneuroblastoma: continued follow-up of a single institution's experience

Sinonasal Carcinomas with Neuroendocrine Features: Histopathological Differentiation and Treatment Outcomes

Objectives Sinonasal cancers with neuroendocrine features share similar clinical, radiological, and histopathological features; however, these tumors often exhibit varying degrees of aggressive behavior presenting significant treatment challenges. The objective of this study was to report our experience with these rare malignancies and to present a review of current literature. Methods Following institutional review board approval, the records of all patients with biopsy-proven sinonasal malignancies over a 5-year period were reviewed. Results The study included 14 patients with olfactory neuroblastomas (ONBs), 7 patients with sinonasal undifferentiated carcinomas (SNUC), and 2 patients with sinonasal neuroendocrine carcinomas (SNEC). Histopathologic markers aided in final diagnosis, but showed variable specificity. In patients with sufficient follow-up, the 2-year disease-free survival rate was 81% (9/11) for ONB and 75% (3/4) for SNUC. Three patients developed a regional or distant recurrence (two with ONBs and one with SNUC). Two patients, one with SNEC and one with ONB, succumbed to brain radionecrosis related to proton radiation therapy. Conclusions Overlapping clinical and histopathological features in poorly differentiated sinonasal cancers with neuroendocrine features continue to present a diagnostic challenge. Individualized assessment and treatment strategies can improve the accuracy of the initial assessment and the treatment outcomes.

Contemporary management of esthesioneuroblastoma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article provides a contemporary review of the management of esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) within the context of recent surgical advancements, while highlighting the ongoing limitations and controversies surrounding this uncommon pathologic entity.

RECENT FINDINGS

Surgical management of ENB is continuously evolving with contemporary endoscopic approaches complementing or in many cases replacing open approaches.

SUMMARY

Complete surgical resection remains the mainstay definitive therapy for ENB. Aggressive, combined modality therapy appears to be justified in patients at greatest risk of developing recurrence based on advanced tumor stage and high pathologic grade. ENB requires prolonged surveillance following treatment given its tendency for late recurrence.

Esthesioneuroblastoma with intracranial extension: A non-surgical approach

Esthesioneuroblastoma is a rare tumor arising from the olfactory mucosa of upper respiratory tract. The primary modality of treatment has been surgery with craniofacial resection followed by post-operative radiotherapy. There are only a few reported cases of non-surgical approaches. We report a case of esthesioneuroblastoma with intracranial extension treated with Vincristine, Adriamycin, Cyclophosphamide, Ifosfamide, Etoposide protocol followed by radiation with 5 years of follow-up. This is the first reported case using this chemotherapy schedule.

An Algorithm for Surgical Approach to the Anterior Skull Base

OBJECTIVE

To characterize our experience with the surgical management of anterior skull base malignancy, and to propose an algorithm for surgical approach to anterior skull base malignancies.

DESIGN

Retrospective review.

SETTING

Academic cranial base center.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty-seven patients who underwent resection of paranasal sinus or anterior skull base malignancy with an endoscopic, cranioendoscopic, or traditional anterior craniofacial approach.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Complications, recurrence, and survival.

RESULTS

There were 48 males and 19 females, ranging from 6 to 88 years old. There were three groups: endonasal endoscopic resection (n = 10), cranioendoscopic resection (n = 12), and traditional craniofacial resection (n = 45). The most common tumor pathologies included esthesioneuroblastoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma. Patients with T3/T4 disease were less likely to undergo endoscopic resection (p = 0.007). The 5-year disease-free survival was 82.1% overall, with no statistically significant differences among approaches. There were no differences in orbital complications, meningitis, or cerebrospinal fluid leak. Use of a transfacial incisions predisposed patients to surgical site infection and sinocutaneous fistulae. An algorithm for surgical approach was developed based on these results.

CONCLUSION

Sinonasal and skull base malignancies can be safely surgically addressed via several approaches. Surgical approach should be selected algorithmically based on preoperative clinical assessment of the tumor and known postoperative complication rates.

Multimodality Treatment of Pediatric Esthesioneuroblastoma

BACKGROUND

Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is a rare cancer of the nasal cavity in children. Radical surgery followed by postoperative radiation is considered the standard of care in adults. A similar approach in children can lead to significant long-term morbidity.

PROCEDURE

A retrospective multi-institutional review of patients less than 21 years of age diagnosed with ENB between 1990 and 2014 was performed. Clinical features, treatment, and outcome were obtained from the medical records.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were identified with a median age of 14 years (range 0.6-20 years) at diagnosis. The majority (75%) were females. Headache was the most common presenting symptom, followed by nasal obstruction and epistaxis. Eight patients had Kadish stage B tumors and 16 had Kadish stage C tumors. Nine patients had metastatic disease. Gross total resection was achieved at diagnosis in eight patients and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in four patients. Twenty-one patients received radiation therapy (45-68.4 Gy). Thirteen patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy with 84% objective response rate. Seven patients experienced disease progression or relapse-five in central nervous system, one local, and one in cervical lymph node. Fifteen patients were alive at the last follow-up. The 5-year disease-free survival and overall survival were 74% and 73%, respectively. Late effects were observed in 78% of long-term survivors. Four patients developed subsequent malignant neoplasms.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric ENB is a chemosensitive disease. Preoperative chemotherapy-based multimodal approach should be used in patients with advanced stage disease. Radiation therapy is effective for local control, but lower doses should be considered in children.

Olfactory Neuroblastoma: Fate of the Neck--A Long-term Multicenter Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

Olfactory neuroblastoma and the management of neck disease has posed considerable challenges to the treating physician. The aims of the study were to determine the incidence and factors influencing neck disease and to identify at-risk patients with cervical node-negative disease at presentation.

STUDY DESIGN

Multicenter case series with retrospective chart review.

SETTING AND SUBJECTS

In sum, 113 patients with a histopathologic diagnosis of olfactory neuroblastoma across 6 tertiary hospitals in Australia and the United States.

METHODS

Treatment modalities for the primary site and neck included surgery, radiotherapy, and combined therapy. Treatment outcomes were measured in relation to date of primary treatment, and long-term follow-up was recorded. Disease-free survival was calculated as time for patients to develop delayed neck disease following primary treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 113 patients (46 females, 49.7 ± 13.2 years) were identified with a median follow-up of 41.5 months (interquartile range, 58.2); 7.1% of patients presented with primary neck disease, while 8.8% of patients presented with delayed neck disease. Neck disease was present in patients with Hyams grade II (22.2%), III (55.6%), and IV (22.2%) lesions (χ(2) = 5.66, P = .13). Histologic grade was higher in patients with primary neck disease (χ(2) = 16.22, P = .001). Positive surgical margins were associated with a higher risk of delayed neck disease as compared with clear surgical margin (17.9% vs 5%, P = .034).

CONCLUSION

Neck metastasis is an important clinical consideration for olfactory neuroblastoma at presentation and in surveillance. Primary treatment of the neck could be considered in select patients. Long-term surveillance of the neck and primary site is essential.

Neck recurrence and mortality in esthesioneuroblastoma: Implications for management of the N0 neck

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To review the literature on neck recurrence in esthesioneuroblastoma.

STUDY DESIGN

PubMed database.

METHODS

A PubMed database search was performed using keywords "esthesioneuroblastoma," "olfactory neuroblastoma," and "esthesioneuroblastoma neck metastasis." Articles written in English with greater than 10 subjects that had data regarding the association of neck recurrence and mortality and/or the association of neck recurrence with Kadish stage were included for analysis.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies met inclusion criteria with information regarding the association of neck recurrence and mortality, and 15 studies had data associating neck recurrence and Kadish stage. The neck recurrence rate was 14.1% in studies analyzing mortality. Among those patients who developed regional metastases, mortality was 60%. Of patients without regional recurrence, the mortality rate from disease was 26% (P < 0.0001) and overall mortality was 32% (P < 0.0001). The rate of neck recurrence within each Kadish stage was 0%, 11%, 21%, and 18% for Kadish stages A, B, C, and D, respectively. The trend toward an increased incidence of neck recurrence from stage A to stage D is statistically significant, with P value 0.003.

CONCLUSION

The rate of neck recurrence in esthesioneuroblastoma is close to 15%. There is a strong association of recurrence with Kadish stage B and C. Mortality from disease in patients with recurrence in cervical lymph nodes is significant when compared to those who never develop neck disease. Prospective studies are needed to evaluate a potential role for elective neck dissection versus elective neck radiation for patients with esthesioneuroblastoma.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

N/A. Laryngoscope, 126:1373-1379, 2016.

The role of elective nodal irradiation for esthesioneuroblastoma patients with clinically negative neck

PURPOSE

Although adjuvant radiation to the tumor bed has been reported to improve the clinic outcomes of esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) patients, the role of elective neck irradiation (ENI) in clinically node-negative (N0) patients remains controversial. Here, we evaluated the effects of ENI on neck nodal relapse risk in ENB patients treated with radiation therapy as a component of multimodality treatment.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Seventy-one N0 ENB patients irradiated at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center between 1970 and 2013 were identified. ENI was performed on 22 of these patients (31%). Survival analysis was performed with focus on comparative outcomes of those patients who did and did not receive ENI.

RESULTS

The median follow-up time for our cohort is 80.8 months (range, 6-350 months). Among N0 patients, 13 (18.3%) developed neck nodal relapses, with a median time to progression of 62.5 months. None of these 13 patients received prophylactic neck irradiation. ENI was associated with significantly improved regional nodal control at 5 years (regional control rate of 100% for ENI vs 82%, P < .001), but not overall survival or disease-free survival. Eleven patients without ENI developed isolated neck recurrences. All had further treatment for their neck disease, including neck dissection (n = 10), radiation (n = 10), or chemotherapy (n = 5). Six of these 11 patients (54.5%) demonstrated no evidence of further recurrence with a median follow-up of 55.5 months.

CONCLUSION

ENI significantly reduces the risk of cervical nodal recurrence in ENB patients with clinically N0 neck, but this did not translate to a survival benefit. Multimodality treatment for isolated neck recurrence provides a reasonable salvage rate. The greatest benefit for ENI appeared to be among younger patients who presented with Kadish C disease. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Comparison of outcomes for open versus endoscopic approaches for olfactory neuroblastoma: A systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic approaches have been adopted as an alternative to craniofacial resection in the surgical management of olfactory neuroblastoma.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, and CINAHL (2000-2014) to compare outcomes for open versus endoscopic approaches.

RESULTS

Thirty-six studies containing 609 patients were included. Meta-analysis of (a) all patients, (b) Kadish C/D only, and (c) Hyams III/IV only, failed to show a difference in locoregional control and metastasis-free survival between approaches. However, endoscopic approaches were associated with improved overall survival (OS) for all 3 groups (p = .001, .04, and .001, respectively), and higher disease-specific survival (DSS) for all patients (p = .004) and Hyams III/IV only (p = .002).

CONCLUSION

The current study suggests that endoscopic approaches have comparable control rates to open approaches for olfactory neuroblastoma. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E2306-E2316, 2016.

Proton therapy for pediatric and adolescent esthesioneuroblastoma

BACKGROUND

Esthesioneuroblastoma (EN) of the paranasal sinus comprises less than 3% of tumors of in pediatric and adolescent patients [1]. The collective adult literature indicates a critical role for radiotherapy in attaining cure [2], yet pediatric outcome data is limited. Radiation in pediatric patients with EN can cause significant morbidity due to the proximity of critical structures. Proton radiotherapy offers a potential dosimetric benefit that may improve long-term survival and toxicity outcomes in the pediatric population [3].

METHODS

We retrospectively identified eight patients treated for EN with proton radiotherapy from 2000-2013. Times to event clinical endpoints are summarized using the Kaplan-Meier methods and are from the date of radiotherapy completion. Toxicities are reviewed and graded according to CTCAE v. 4.0.

RESULTS

Median follow up was 4.6 years for survivors (range 0.8-9.4 years). The 4 year overall survival was 87.5%. Four of eight patients (one elective) had comprehensive neck radiotherapy. No local or regional failures were observed. Two patients failed distantly with diffuse leptomeningeal disease and intraparenchymal brain metastases, at 0.6 and 1.3 months respectively. Four patients developed radiation related late toxicities including endocrine dysfunction, two cases of grade 2 retinopathy and one case of grade 3 optic neuropathy.

CONCLUSIONS

In a limited cohort, proton radiotherapy appears to provide excellent locoregional disease control even in those patients with locally advanced disease and intracranial extension. Distant failure determined overall survival in our cohort. Toxicities were acceptable given disease location and extent.

The role of systemic therapy in the management of sinonasal cancer: A critical review

PURPOSE

Due to the rarity and the variety of histological types of sinonasal cancers, there is a paucity of data regarding strategy for their optimal treatment. Generally, outcomes of advanced and higher grade tumors remain unsatisfactory, despite the employment of sophisticated surgical approaches, technical advances in radiation techniques and the use of heavy ion particles. In this context, we critically evaluated the role of systemic therapy as part of a multidisciplinary approach to locally advanced disease.

RESULTS

Induction chemotherapy has shown encouraging activity and could have a role in the multimodal treatment of patients with advanced sinonasal tumors. For epithelial tumors, the most frequently employed chemotherapy is cisplatin, in combination with either 5-fluorouracil, taxane, ifosfamide, or vincristine. Only limited experiences with concurrent chemoradiation exist with sinonasal cancer. The role of systemic treatment for each histological type (intestinal-type adenocarcinoma, sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma, sinonasal neuroendocrine carcinoma, olfactory neuroblastoma, sinonasal primary mucosal melanoma, sarcoma) is discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment of SNC requires a multimodal approach. Employment of systemic therapy for locally advanced disease could result in better outcomes, and optimize the therapeutic armamentarium. Further studies are needed to precisely define the role of systemic therapy and identify the optimal sequencing for its administration in relation to local therapies.

Esthesioneuroblastoma of the nasal cavity

OBJECTIVES

Esthesioneuroblastoma is an uncommon cancer of the nasal cavity. We describe the outcomes for 26 patients treated with curative intent with photon radiotherapy (RT) at the University of Florida.

METHODS

Between May 1972 and June 2007, 26 patients received RT for previously untreated esthesioneuroblastoma of the nasal cavity. Sixteen patients were males and 10 were females with a median age of 55 years (range, 3 to 82 y). The modified Kadish stage distribution was: B, 7 patients; C, 17 patients; and D, 2 patients. Treatment modalities included the following: definitive RT, 5 patients; preoperative RT, 2 patients; and postoperative RT after resection, 19 patients. Elective neck irradiation (ENI) was performed in 17 (71%) of 24 N0 patients.

RESULTS

Rates of local control, cause-specific survival, and absolute overall survival at 5 years were 79%, 72%, and 69%, respectively. Overall survival among patients treated with definitive RT was 20% at 5 years, compared with 81% among those who underwent surgery and adjuvant RT (P=0.01). One (6%) of 17 patients who received ENI developed a recurrence in the neck and was successfully salvaged. Ultimate neck control was 100% at 5 years for patients who received ENI versus 69% among those not receiving ENI (P=0.0173).

CONCLUSIONS

Resection combined with adjuvant RT is more effective than surgery or RT alone in the treatment of esthesioneuroblastoma. ENI reduces the risk of regional relapse in patients with Kadish stage B and C cancers.

Multidisciplinary treatment of olfactory neuroblastoma: Patterns of failure and management of recurrence

PURPOSE

Esthesioneuroblastoma is an uncommon malignancy of the head and neck for which there is no defined treatment protocol. The purpose of this study is to report our experience with the treatment and patterns of failure of this disease.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

From 1994 to 2012, 37 previously unreported patients with esthesioneuroblastoma were evaluated, and 32 eventually treated for cure at 2 academic medical centers. All patients were staged with Kadish criteria. The mean and median follow-ups were 96.1 and 76.5 months respectively (range 6-240 months).

RESULTS

The Kadish stage was A in 6 patients, B in 13 patients, and C in 13 patients. Four patients were initially treated with concurrent chemo-radiation therapy. Twenty-eight patients were treated with primary surgery. Two (2) underwent open medial maxillectomy and 26 underwent craniofacial resection (open - 17, endoscopic - 9). Three patients received curative surgical resection only. Seven patients failed either within the cranial axis or distantly, 6 of the 7 are dead of disease, 10-194 months following initial treatment. Six patients had isolated neck recurrences, 4/6 were salvaged with neck dissection and additional chemo-radiation and remain alive 30-194 months following initial treatment. Estimated overall survival rate at 10 years was 78% based on Kadish and T stages.

CONCLUSION

In this retrospective analysis of 32 patients, Kadish stage C and stage T3/T4 tumors were associated with worse outcome. Total radiation dose of 60 Gy, margin status, patient age, were not found to have significant prognostic value.

Esthesioneuroblastoma, neuroendocrine carcinoma, and sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma: differentiation in diagnosis and treatment

Introduction Malignant sinonasal tumors comprise less than 1% of all neoplasms. A wide variety of tumors occurring primarily in this site can present with an undifferentiated or poorly differentiated morphology. Among them are esthesioneuroblastomas, sinonasal undifferentiated carcinomas, and neuroendocrine carcinomas. Objectives We will discuss diagnostic strategies, recent advances in immunohistochemistry and molecular diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Data Synthesis These lesions are diagnostically challenging, and up to 30% of sinonasal malignancies referred to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are given a different diagnosis on review of pathology. Correct classification is vital, as these tumors are significantly different in biological behavior and response to treatment. The past decade has witnessed advances in diagnosis and therapeutic modalities leading to improvements in survival. However, the optimal treatment for esthesioneuroblastoma, sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma, and neuroendocrine carcinoma remain debated. We discuss advances in immunohistochemistry and molecular diagnosis, diagnostic strategies, and treatment selection. Conclusions There are significant differences in prognosis and treatment for esthesioneuroblastoma, neuroendocrine carcinoma, and sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma. Recent advances have the potential to improve oncologic outcomes but further investigation in needed.

Surgical Techniques for Sinonasal Malignancies

Sinonasal malignancies are a rare subset of malignancies of the upper aerodigestive tract which had been traditionally approached via open techniques. This article primarily addresses a paradigm shift in endoscopic endonasal oncological resection utilizing principles of tumor disassembly and negative margins. The surgical steps to these endoscopic techniques are detailed, emphasizing principles of sound oncological resection.

Olfactory neuroblastoma: the long-term outcome and late toxicity of multimodal therapy including radiotherapy based on treatment planning using computed tomography

Background

Olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) is a rare tumor originating from olfactory epithelium. Here we retrospectively analyzed the long-term treatment outcomes and toxicity of radiotherapy for ONB patients for whom computed tomography (CT) and three-dimensional treatment planning was conducted to reappraise the role of radiotherapy in the light of recent advanced technology and chemotherapy.

Methods

Seventeen patients with ONB treated between July 1992 and June 2013 were included. Three patients were Kadish stage B and 14 were stage C. All patients were treated with radiotherapy with or without surgery or chemotherapy. The radiation dose was distributed from 50 Gy to 66 Gy except for one patient who received 40 Gy preoperatively.

Results

The median follow-up time was 95 months (range 8–173 months). The 5-year overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) rates were estimated at 88% and 74%, respectively. Five patients with stage C disease had recurrence with the median time to recurrence of 59 months (range 7–115 months). Late adverse events equal to or above Grade 2 in CTCAE v4.03 were observed in three patients.

Conclusion

Multimodal therapy including radiotherapy with precise treatment planning based on CT simulation achieved an excellent local control rate with acceptable toxicity and reasonable overall survival for patients with ONB.

Endoscopic endonasal surgery for nonadenomatous sellar/parasellar lesions

INTRODUCTION

This article demonstrates the experience with endoscopic transphenoidal anterior skull base surgery for lesions other than pituitary adenomas. The spectrum of lesions, results, and complications are presented.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This series includes patients with 102 lesions other than pituitary adenomas operated upon using the endoscopic approach. The results and complications were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The most common lesions treated were Rathke Cleft Cysts (n = 39) and craniopharyngiomas (n = 18) in a total of 82 tumors. There were 8 patients with inflammatory lesions, and the remainder had a variety of unusual pathologies. Complications other than diabetes insipidus (n = 12) were uncommon, with 6 postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leaks.

CONCLUSIONS

The endoscopic anterior skull base approach is highly effective in treating a large variety of lesions other than pituitary adenomas. The adoption of the nasoseptal flap for closure has markedly reduced the incidence of spinal fluid leaks, and is used routinely for lesions that violate the intracranial compartment.

Long-term follow-up using 18F-FDG PET/CT for postoperative olfactory neuroblastoma

PURPOSE

The present study evaluated the usefulness of postoperative fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (F-FDG) PET/computed tomography (CT) in the management of olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten patients (eight men and two women; mean age, 48.5 years) with histologically confirmed ONB who underwent craniofacial resection were retrospectively included in this study. A total of 42 whole-body F-FDG PET/CT scans for postoperative surveillance or restaging were reviewed. The mean time from operation until the PET/CT scan was 42.1 months. We evaluated the F-FDG uptake and the presence of recurrent lesions during the follow-up period and compared the PET/CT results with the results of MRI and clinical examination (endoscopy).

RESULTS

Seven of the 10 patients had 24 recurrent lesions, and 18 of these recurrent lesions (seven local recurrences, eight cervical lymph node metastases, one intracranial metastasis, and two distant metastases) were F-FDG positive (75.0%). Three local recurrences and three intracranial metastases were false negative and were detected by endoscopy and MRI, respectively. The mean time from operation until recurrence was 51.4 months, and 17 lesions (70.8%) occurred more than 2 years after the initial operation.

CONCLUSION

Although F-FDG PET/CT is useful for the detection of postoperative recurrences of ONB, long-term follow-up combined with endoscopy and MRI is mandatory.

Synchronous esthesioneuroblastoma and growth-hormone-secreting pituitary macroadenoma: combined open and endoscopic management

Background Esthesioneuroblastoma is an uncommon malignant neoplasm that arises from the olfactory neuroepithelium. In this article we report a case of esthesioneuroblastoma presenting concomitantly with a growth-hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary macroadenoma. Results A 52 year old woman underwent surgery for suspected nasal polyps. Intralesional debulking of an intranasal tumor disclosed a low-grade esthesioneuroblastoma. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a large nasal and intracranial tumor, in addition to a separate sellar and suprasellar tumor. The patient was frankly acromegalic. She underwent a first-stage gross total resection of the esthesioneuroblastoma via a combined extended subfrontal and extended endonasal approach, followed by focused radiation therapy. She then returned for endoscopic removal of the GH-secreting pituitary macroadenoma. Conclusion The combined open and endoscopic management of this patient is described and a review of the literature presented. To our knowledge this is the first case of synchronous esthesioneuroblastoma and macroadenoma, in this case GH secreting, described in the literature.

Preservation of olfaction after unilateral endoscopic approach for resection of esthesioneuroblastoma

Objectives We present a case of olfactory preservation after a unilateral transcribriform transethmoidal endoscopic resection of esthesioneuroblastoma. We also discuss the oncologic results of endoscopic and transcranial approaches and describe the potential benefits and limitations of an endoscopic approach. Setting Single academic medical center. Participant and Design The clinical course of a 28-year-old patient who underwent endoscopic en bloc resection of esthesioneuroblastoma through a unilateral transcribriform transethmoidal approach was reviewed. Results Imaging demonstrated a left-sided nasal mass with cribriform plate involvement (Kadish C). Intraoperatively, the left olfactory bulb and epithelium were sacrificed. Negative frozen sections were obtained from the right olfactory epithelium and dura surrounding the right olfactory bulb. Reconstruction was performed using a multilayered closure of fascia, rigid buttress, and nasoseptal flap. Histology was consistent with esthesioneuroblastoma. Postoperative clinical evaluation, endoscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated no evidence of residual or recurrent tumor at 18 months. The UPSIT smell testing revealed normal olfaction preoperatively, moderate microsomia at 3 months postoperatively, and mild microsomia at 18 months postoperatively. Conclusions Endoscopic resection of esthesioneuroblastoma has demonstrated similar oncologic control while reducing postoperative morbidity and mortality over transcranial approaches. This case reveals the potential to preserve olfaction while achieving en bloc endoscopic resection of early stage esthesioneuroblastoma.

Radiosurgery is an Effective Treatment for Recurrent Esthesioneuroblastoma: A Multicenter Study

Objective Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is a rare malignant neuroendocrine neoplasm that is prone to both local and metastatic recurrence. Local recurrence may often be treated with repeat resection. However, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) offers a noninvasive option. Design Prospective database review. Participants Gamma knife prospective databases were queried at all institutions within the North American Gamma Knife Consortium, 16 at the time of this report. All patients who had undergone SRS for ENB were included. Main Outcome Measure Response of recurrent ENB to SRS. Results A total of 31 locally recurrent tumors in 13 patients were treated with SRS. The median age was 49 years (range: 19-79 years). At a median follow-up of 36 months (range: 1-100 months), 13 (48%) treated tumors were smaller, 11 (41%) were stable, and 3 (11%) showed continued growth following SRS. Univariate analysis did not find any significant factor relating to failure of treatment. Notably, no treatment-related complications (0%) were observed in this cohort. Conclusion SRS appears to provide a safe and effective option for treatment of recurrent intracranial ENB. Overall, 89% of treated tumors were controlled in this multi-institutional study.

Endoscopic resection of sinonasal cancers

Sinonasal malignancies, a rare group of tumors, are characterized by histological heterogeneity and poor survival. As improvements in image-guidance and endoscopic technologies became incorporated into head and neck oncologic and neurosurgical practice, the application of these technologies and techniques to the surgical management of sinonasal malignancy began. Over the past decade, there has been increasing evidence regarding the safety and oncological effectiveness of these techniques. Several institutions have reported their experience with endoscopic surgery and have shown reduced morbidity, better quality of life, and survival outcomes equivalent to those of open surgery in carefully selected patients. Endoscopic cranial base surgery is a rapidly evolving field. We review the literature on oncological outcomes, safety, quality of life, and recent technological advances.

Endoscopic endonasal technique: treatment of paranasal and anterior skull base malignancies

Objective

Method

Conclusion

Long-term outcome of esthesioneuroblastoma: hyams grade predicts patient survival

Object Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is a rare malignant neuroendocrine tumor originating from the olfactory neuroepithelium in the cribriform plate. Controversy still exists regarding the role of pathologic grading (Hyams grade) in prognostication. This study was undertaken to describe our experience with ENB and assess the role of pathologic grading in patient outcome. Methods This was a retrospective, single-institution experience, including 109 patients with ENB treated at our institution from 1962 to 2009. Multivariate analysis was performed utilizing Cox regression analysis models utilizing age, gender, modified Kadish stage, and Hyams grade. Results Mean age was 49 ± 16 (median 50) years at presentation (range 12 to 90 years). Median follow up was 5.1 years. All-cause mortality was significantly influenced by Hyams grading in univariate (p = 0.04) and multivariate (p = 0.02) analysis, in addition to proven prognostic factors, Kadish staging, lymph node metastasis, and age. Median survival was 9.8 years compared with 6.9 years with low (grade 1 to 2) versus high (grade 3 to 4) Hyams grade. Median overall survival was 7.2 ± 0.7 years. Conclusion ENB has a variable outcome, which is primarily prognosticated by the extent of involvement at presentation (Kadish stage and lymph node metastasis) and higher Hyams pathologic grade.

Esthesioneuroblastoma: an update on the massachusetts eye and ear infirmary and massachusetts general hospital experience with craniofacial resection, proton beam radiation, and chemotherapy

Objectives To update the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) experience in the management of esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) with multimodality therapy and to reassess treatment outcomes and complications in a larger cohort with longer follow-up times. Design A retrospective chart review. Setting A tertiary referral center. Participants All patients presenting with ENB and managed at the MGH and MEEI from 1997 to 2013. Main Outcome Measures Disease-free and overall survival. Results Twenty-two patients were identified with an average follow-up of 73 months. Ten patients presented with Kadish stage B disease and 12 with stage C disease. A total of six patients (27%) developed regional metastases. Treatment for all patients included craniofacial resection (CFR) followed by proton beam irradiation with or without chemotherapy. The 5-year disease-free and overall survival rates were 86.4% and 95.2%, respectively, by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Negative margins were a significant factor in disease-free survival. One patient experienced severe late-radiation toxicity. Conclusions ENB is safely and effectively treated with CFR followed by proton beam irradiation. The high incidence of regional metastases warrants strong consideration for elective neck irradiation. Proton beam radiation is associated with lower rates of severe late-radiation toxicity than conventional radiotherapy.

Esthesioneuroblastoma: one of the causes of proptosis

Esthesioneuroblatoma (Olfactory neuroblastoma) is a rare malignant neoplasm arising from the olfactory epithelium with bimodal age distribution between with first peak in second decades and second peak in sixth decade. Proptosis due to esthesioneuroblastoma is one of the rare causes. They have a long natural history characterized by frequent local or regional recurrence. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are the imaging modalities for diagnosing these tumors. A multidisciplinary approach with surgery and radiation therapy is an excellent treatment options for these tumors with chemotherapy being used to treat advanced or recurrent disease.

[Esthesioneuroblastoma]

Esthesioneuroblastoma is an uncommon malignancy originating from olfactive epithelium. Men are more frequently affected than women. Nasal symptoms are the most common revealing signs. Immunohistochemistry helps diagnosis. There is no randomized trial evaluating treatment due to the low incidence of this tumor. Radiotherapy and surgery are the standard of care. Radiotherapy is benefic even in early stage disease. Chemotherapy is indicated in case of locally advanced or metastatic disease.

The prognostic implications of Hyam's subtype for patients with Kadish stage C esthesioneuroblastoma

Esthesioneuroblastoma (EN) is a rare sinonasal tumor with varied aggressiveness and potential for intracranial invasion. EN is staged anatomically with radiographic evaluation using the Kadish staging system (stages A, B, and C) and histologically by using Hyam's criteria (grades 1-4). Here we show that despite radiographic evidence of aggressive features, the prognosis of patients with Kadish stage C EN is best predicted by tumor histology using Hyam's criteria. We retrospectively analyzed patients with EN with Kadish stage C who were evaluated and treated at our institution between 1995 and 2009. Clinical information was collected using patient medical records, imaging, and review of pathological specimens. Twenty patients with Kadish stage C EN were identified with mean age of 51 years (31-70 years) with a median follow-up of 41.4 months (1.3-175 months). Upon pathological review, 44.4% of patients had low-grade (1/2) and 55.6% had high-grade (3/4) histology. About 37.5% of patients with low-grade EN had undergone gross total resection (GTR) and the remaining 62.5% had GTR and adjuvant radiation, whereas 50% of patients with high-grade ER had undergone GTR, 20% had undergone GTR and adjuvant radiation, and 30% had been treated with a subtotal resection (STR) and adjuvant radiation. The 5-year and 10-year survival in patients with low-grade EN was 86% in comparison to 56% and 28% with high-grade EN, respectively. In patients with low-grade EN, the 2-year progression free survival (PFS) was 86% and the 5-year PFS was 65% in comparison to 73% and 49% in patients with high-grade EN, respectively. The patient's tumor histology (Hyam's criteria) appeared to be the best way of predicting the prognosis and for selecting patients for adjuvant radiotherapy.

Endoscopic endonasal compared with anterior craniofacial and combined cranionasal resection of esthesioneuroblastomas

OBJECTIVE

Esthesioneuroblastomas represent a surgical challenge because of their anatomical location, the necessity of achieving negative margins, and the often-cosmetically disfiguring transfacial approaches needed. Recently, expanded endonasal endoscopic approaches have been developed, either alone or in combination with a craniotomy. We conducted a systematic review of case series and case reports to compare outcomes between these various surgical approaches.

METHODS

A MEDLINE search was conducted of the modern literature (1985-2010) to identify open and endoscopic surgical series. Tumor and patient characteristics, Kadish stage, extent of resection, and progression-free and overall survival were recorded and analyzed by approach. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to assess overall survival and progression-free survival.

RESULTS

Forty-seven studies comprising 453 patients were included. The endoscopic cohort had a greater proportion of Kadish Stage A tumors compared with the craniofacial group. Gross total resection was achieved in 98.1% of patients who underwent an endoscopic approach compared with 81.3% for the craniofacial and 100% for the cranionasal cohorts. Local recurrence occurred in 8.0% of patients in the endoscopic group compared with 22.1% in the craniofacial and 16.7% in the cranionasal cohorts.

CONCLUSION

In well-selected cases, cranionasal and endonasal approaches can be safe and effective. An ongoing evaluation of the benefits and limitations are necessary to better define the ideal patient population and patient-specific risk factors for the use of these minimal access techniques.

Treatment modalities and outcomes of olfactory neuroblastoma

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To analyze the clinical features of olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) and compare the treatment results according to various treatment modalities, and to validate various staging systems.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

METHODS

This study included 35 patients with ONB. Treatment consisted of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy (seven patients), traditional craniofacial resection (TCFR, 12 patients), endoscopic craniofacial resection with craniotomy (ECFR, 11 patients), and transnasal endoscopic resection without craniotomy (five patients). The overall mean follow-up period was 64.9 months and mean disease-free survival (DFS) was 50.2 months.

RESULTS

Five-year overall survival and 5-year DFS rates were 76.0% and 61.8%, respectively. Five-year DFS rates for nonsurgical treatment, TCFR, ECFR, and transnasal endoscopic resection without craniotomy group were 35.7%, 41.7%, 80.8%, and 100%, respectively (P = .01). Neck metastasis negatively affected survival (P = .03). DFS rate of patients in the endoscopic surgery group was higher than the nonendoscopic surgery group on Cox multivariate regression analysis (P = .02). The modified Kadish classification system predicted DFS more accurately than the Biller and Dulguerov classification system (P = .04). Locoregional recurrence occurred in 23% (period of recurrence after treatment, mean 49 months; range, 3-143) of patients with ONB, and distant metastasis in 26%. ECRF group showed lesser perioperative bleeding amount and shorter operation time compared with TCFR. However, the admission period was not statistically different.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic surgery for advanced ONB showed successful survival results compared with nonendoscopic surgery on multivariate analysis, and limited morbidities. Modified Kadish classification best predicted DFS for ONB. Long-term follow-up is necessary due to its late recurrence.

Esthesioneuroblastoma: a contemporary review of diagnosis and management

Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is a rare malignancy, representing only 3% to 6% of all sinonasal malignancies. A wide array of treatment options for ENB have been described in the literature, but prospective clinical trials are absent given the tumor's rarity and natural history. Delay in diagnosis leading to an initial advanced stage of presentation is common secondary to the clinically hidden primary site at the anterior skull base. This article presents data from the current body of literature and reviews the advocated roles for surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Salvage Treatment of Local Recurrence in Esthesioneuroblastoma: A Meta-analysis

Esthesioneuroblastoma has a local recurrence rate of ∼30%, but no standard regimen for salvage of local recurrence has been established. We report data from 678 patients from series published since 1990, with a risk reduction analysis of salvage with surgery, radiation, or combined surgery and radiation therapy. We found a 28.5% rate of local recurrence after treatment, and a 42.6% rate of successful salvage with surgery, radiation, or combined treatment. The odds ratio for successful salvage, defined as disease-free survival for at least 1 year, was not significantly different for combined surgery and radiation versus surgery alone or radiation alone or for surgery alone versus radiation alone. The salvage odds ratio for combined surgery and radiation therapy versus radiation therapy alone, 3.5, approached, but did not reach statistical significance. This study reveals a reasonable rate of successful salvage of local esthesioneuroblastoma recurrence using surgery, radiation, or combined surgery and radiation.

The added value of 18F-FDG PET/CT for evaluation of patients with esthesioneuroblastoma

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical utility of (18)F-FDG PET/CT in esthesioneuroblastoma staging and restaging and quantify the additional benefit of PET/CT to conventional imaging.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed with institutional review board approval for patients with a diagnosis of esthesioneuroblastoma who underwent PET/CT from 2000 to 2010. PET/CT results were retrospectively reviewed by 2 radiologists who were unaware of the clinical and imaging data. Positive imaging findings were classified into 3 categories: local disease, cervical nodal spread, and distant metastasis. All conventional imaging performed in the 6 mo preceding PET/CT, and the medical records, were reviewed to determine the potential added value.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients (mean age, 52.3 ± 10 y; range, 23-81 y) were identified who underwent a total of 77 PET/CT examinations. Maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) was 8.68 ± 4.75 (range, 3.6-23.3) for the primary tumor and 8.57 ± 6.46 (range, 1.9-27.2) for the metastatic site. There was no clear association between primary tumor SUVmax and tumor grade (P = 0.30). Compared with conventional imaging, PET/CT changed disease stage or altered clinical management in 11 (39%) of 28 esthesioneuroblastoma patients. Of these, 10 (36%) of 28 were upstaged on the basis of their PET/CT studies. Cervical nodal metastases were found in 5 (18%) of 28, local recurrence in 2 (7%) of 28, cervical nodal and distant metastases in 2 (7%) of 28, and distant metastases in 1 (4%) of 28. One patient (4%) was downstaged after negative findings on PET/CT.

CONCLUSION

PET/CT is a useful adjunct to conventional imaging in the initial staging and restaging of esthesioneuroblastoma by detecting nodal and distant metastatic disease not demonstrated by conventional imaging and identifying local recurrence hidden by treatment changes on conventional imaging.

Endoscopic skull base surgery: a comprehensive comparison with open transcranial approaches

Little data exists comparing endoscopic endonasal approaches to pathology of the anterior skull base with more traditional transcranial and transsphenoidal microscopic approaches. In order to more fully characterize the role of endoscopy in the management of pathology of the anterior cranial base, we conducted a systematic review of case series and case reports documenting surgical and clinical outcomes. We found that for craniopharyngiomas, clival chordomas, esthesioneuroblastomas and giant pituitary adenomas, the endonasal endoscopic approach can result in equivalent or higher rates of gross total resection than open approaches. For meningiomas, however, open transcranial approaches are still able to achieve higher rates of total resection. CSF leak rates are higher for patients undergoing endoscopic surgery for meningiomas and craniopharyngiomas, but not for chordomas, esthesioneuroblastomas or giant pituitary adenomas. In certain patients, the endonasal endoscopic approach may be a safe and effective alternative for the treatment of a wide variety of skull base pathology, particularly those with small midline tumours.

Late occurrence of drop metastasis to the spine in a case of esthesioneuroblastoma

Esthesioneuroblastoma is an aggressive neuroectodermal tumor that originates from the olfactory mucosa and often recurs locally. Distant metastasis of esthesioneuroblastoma has been described, but there are few reports of drop metastasis to the spinal cord. Here, we report a case of multiple drop metastases to the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions of the spinal cord that occurred 18 years after resection and radiotherapy of the original anterior cranial fossa lesion. There was no evidence of local recurrence. The symptomatic lesion was treated with resection and adjuvant chemotherapy. The options available for treatment of this disease are summarized with a review of the few reported cases of spinal metastasis of esthesioneuroblastoma.

Reconstruction techniques in skull base surgery

One of the major challenges of cranial base surgery is reconstruction of basal dural defects. Ineffective reconstruction may result in potentially life-threatening complications such as cerebrospinal fluid leak, meningitis, and tension pneumocephalus. Goals of reconstructive procedures are to repair the dural defect and to separate intracranial contents from bacteria-laden secretion of the mouth, nose, and sinus. Different reconstructive techniques have been reported. Multiple factors may influence the surgical choice of reconstructive technique and its outcome. Regional pedicled flap and vascular free flaps represent the best reconstructive options because vascularized tissues promote fast and complete healing. A variety of endoscopic pedicled mucosal flaps within the nasal cavity have also been described. The different reconstruction techniques are described and discussed in terms of indications, advantages, and drawbacks.

Esthesioneuroblastoma: Results and Outcomes of a Single Institution's Experience

OBJECTIVES

Analysis of outcomes of a cohort of patients with esthesioneuroblastoma.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort analysis.

SETTING

PATIENTS presenting with esthesioneuroblastoma from 1994 to 2006 in a tertiary care academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Fifteen consecutive patients diagnosed as having esthesioneuroblastoma were treated during this time period using a subcranial resection. The mean follow-up is 75 months (range, 2 to 240 mos).

RESULTS

The overall survival was 100% and the overall disease-free survival was 49% and 24% at 5 and 15 years, respectively. PATIENTS treated with radiation therapy following surgical resection had a 5- and 15-year disease-free survival of 83.3% compared with a 5- and 15-year disease-free survival of 26.7% and 0%, respectively, for patients whose initial treatment was surgery alone. The mean time to recurrence was 82.1 months. None of the patients had a decrease in Karnofsky Performance Score following subcranial resection.

CONCLUSIONS

PATIENTS with esthesioneuroblastoma whose initial treatment consists of surgical resection followed by radiation therapy have a longer disease-free survival than patients treated with surgery alone. However, initial treatment modality did not have an effect on survival. Long-term, close follow-up is necessary to identify recurrences, which can be treated with a high degree of success.

Esthesioneuroblastoma: the massachusetts eye and ear infirmary and massachusetts general hospital experience with craniofacial resection, proton beam radiation, and chemotherapy

OBJECTIVES

To determine the efficacy of craniofacial resection and proton radiation for the management of esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB).

DESIGN

A retrospective chart review was performed of all patients presenting with ENB and completely managed at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) from 1997 to 2006.

SETTING

A tertiary referral center.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Disease-free and overall survival.

PARTICIPANTS

All patients presenting with ENB and completely managed at the MGH and the MEEI from 1997 to 2006.

RESULTS

Ten patients were identified with a median follow-up time of 52.8 months. Average age at presentation was 45 years. Nasal obstruction was the most common presenting symptom. Three patients presented with Kadish stage B disease and seven with stage C. No patient had evidence of cervical or metastatic disease at presentation. Seven patients were treated with craniofacial resections (CFR) followed by proton beam radiation with or without chemotherapy. Three patients were treated with initial chemotherapy with no response. They subsequently underwent CFR followed by proton beam radiation. The 5-year disease-free and overall survival rates were 90% and 85.7%, respectively, by Kaplan-Meier analysis. No patient suffered any severe radiation toxicity.

CONCLUSION

ENB can be safely and effectively treated with CFR followed by proton beam irradiation. Proton irradiation may be associated with less toxicity than photon irradiation. The role of chemotherapy remains unclear.

Esthesioneuroblastoma: is there a need for elective neck treatment?

PURPOSE

To assess the risk of cervical lymph node metastases after definitive treatment for esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) that did not include elective neck therapy.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

This was a retrospective analysis of 26 ENB patients treated at the University of Michigan between 1995 and 2007. Tumor stage was Kadish A in 1 patient, B in 19, C in 5, and unknown in 1. Craniofacial or subcranial resection was performed in 24 patients (92%), with negative margins in 22 (92%). Postoperative radiotherapy (RT) to the primary site was given in 12 patients (46%), and 14 patients (54%) had surgery alone. All patients had clinically N0 disease, and no patient underwent elective neck dissection or radiation. Median follow-up was 72 months.

RESULTS

Local relapse-free survival was significantly better for patients who received postoperative RT compared with those who had surgery alone: 100% vs. 29% at 5 years, respectively (p = 0.005). Five-year disease-free survival was 87.5% in the RT group vs. 31% in the surgery-alone group (p = 0.05). Regional failure was observed in 7 patients (27%), 6 with Kadish Stage B and 1 with Stage C disease. The most common site of nodal failure was Level II, and 3 patients failed in the contralateral neck. Only 3 patients with regional failure were successfully salvaged.

CONCLUSION

The high rate of regional failures when the neck is not electively treated justifies elective nodal RT in patients with both Kadish Stages B and C. In addition, our experience confirms the beneficial effect on local control of adjuvant RT to the tumor bed.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the setting of locally advanced olfactory neuroblastoma with intracranial extension

Olfactory neuroblastoma (esthesioneuroblastoma) is a rare malignant tumor of neuroectodermal origin. With only about 1,000 cases reported, there are no clear guidelines regarding management of this disease. Intracranial extension and orbital involvement have been shown to be independent risk factors associated with poorer outcomes. We hereby report a case of a 46-year old male presented with an 8-month history of progressive nasal obstruction and intermittent right-sided epistaxis associated with anosmia and increased pressure sensation in and around the right eye. Further evaluation revealed a large enhancing heterogeneous cystic and solid mass in the right nasal cavity measuring 5.0×5.3×4.6 cm with extension superiorly into the anterior cranial fossa and frontal lobes, ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses. A biopsy of this mass confirmed high grade olfactory neuroblastoma. Because of the intra-cranial extension, a decision was made to start neoadjuvant chemotherapy with cisplatin and etoposide. The patient had very good response to this treatment on a repeat imaging study and went on to have resection of this mass. Post-operatively, he received radiation therapy to the tumor bed and 2 more cycles of chemotherapy. He has been followed now for more than 8 months with no evidence of disease recurrence.

The developing management of esthesioneuroblastoma: a single institution experience

Esthesioneuroblastoma remains a challenging disease because of its rarity, the complexity of surrounding structures, missing opinions of optimal treatment protocol, and complications associated with necessary surgery. Our objective was to analyse the management and outcome of a cohort of patients with esthesioneuroblastoma from 1990 to 2009 in a tertiary medical centre. There were 17 eligible patients (8 males and 9 females) with the median age of 53 years (range 20-75 years). An obvious inconsistency was noted in the management of the various tumours of the present series during the two decades due to a lack of a uniform treatment protocol. The median follow-up time was 57.5 months (range 3-158 months). Nine patients (seven with curative treatment intent) died of the disease with the median time from diagnosis to death of 60 months (range 3-161 months). Eight patients had no evidence of the disease at last follow-up visit (median 76 months, range 24-119 months). Recurrences were documented in seven of the patients. The median time from end of primary treatment to a recurrence was 57 months (range 6-110 months). The 5-year overall survival and disease-free survival was 68 and 62%, respectively. The management of ENB should be planned by an experienced head and neck surgeon as part of a multidisciplinary team in a tertiary referral setting. Multimodality therapy with long-term follow-up is preferable and should be set based on the available disease-specific classifications for clinical staging and histopathological grading.

Olfactory neuroblastoma in children: results of multimodality treatment in 2 patients

Olfactory neuroblastoma, a rare malignancy of the olfactory epithelium, is an uncommon tumor in children. It occurs mostly in older individuals and the treatment strategies are based on the experience with adults. In this report, clinical characteristics and treatment results of 2 patients with olfactory neuroblastoma are described and discussed with those reported in the literature.

Retained role of surgery for olfactory neuroblastoma

BACKGROUND

Olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare paranasal sinus malignancy. The traditional approach was craniofacial resection (CFR) and then postoperative radiotherapy until 1998. This review will chart development of a new protocol.

METHODS

This ethics-approved audit evaluated the number of new patients diagnosed with olfactory neuroblastoma, with information relating to patient, disease, and treatment factors noted.

RESULTS

There were 24 eligible patients, 16 men, 8 women, 7 Kadish stage B, 17 stage C. The planned treatment was: chemotherapy (cisplatin/etoposide) and determine treatment dependent on response in 6 patients, surgery and radiotherapy in 16 patients, and single-modality treatment only (surgery, radiotherapy 1) in 2 patients. Surgery to radiotherapy occurred in 17 patients. With salvage treatment ultimate local control was 79%.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a higher local control in those patients who had surgery; abandoning this may carry a higher risk of local failure. The use of response to chemotherapy to determine local treatment remains experimental.

Posttreatment prognosis of patients with esthesioneuroblastoma

OBJECT

There is no Class I evidence to guide the appropriate management of esthesioneuroblastoma (EN). Most data currently guiding treatment come from small- or modest-sized series gathered at individual centers that have concluded that surgery with radiotherapy is the preferred treatment. In this study, the authors summarize the published literature on treatment outcomes in patients with EN. The objective was to ascertain what variables predict prognosis in these patients and to determine the relative effect of different therapies.

METHODS

The authors identified 205 published studies containing treatment outcomes for surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or multimodal treatment. Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, the survival of patients who received surgery was compared with that in those who received surgery and radiotherapy. Additionally, Kadish staging was compared with low- and high-grade Hyams criteria to assess for subgroup prognostic significance in survival differences.

RESULTS

Nine hundred fifty-six patients met the inclusion criteria, with a median follow-up time of 3 years. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated no difference in survival between patients who underwent surgery alone and those who underwent surgery plus radiotherapy at 5 years (78 vs 75%) or 10 years (67 vs 61%, respectively) (p = 0.3). Univariate analysis demonstrated worse survival in cases involving Kadish Grade C tumors, Hyams Grade 3 and 4 tumors, and in patients older than 65 years of age. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that Hyams Grade 3 and 4 lesions carried significant risk (proportional hazard = 4.83, p < 0.001) with 5- and 10-year survival of 47 and 31%.

CONCLUSIONS

A biopsy should always be obtained in cases suspected of EN because histology is a strong prognostic indicator and will help guide appropriate treatment. Unimodal surgery and combined surgery/radiotherapy appear to be of equivalent efficacy with respect to survival in patients with EN. Chemotherapy should be considered in high-grade EN.

When, how and why to treat the neck in patients with esthesioneuroblastoma: a review

Esthesioneuroblastoma is an uncommon tumor that presents in the sinonasal cavity and anterior skull base. Cervical metastases are not frequently found on initial presentation but eventually occur in 20-25% of these patients. This presents the treating physician with the difficult decision as to how and when to treat the neck in this disease. The aims of this study were to provide a comprehensive review of the incidence of N+ disease at presentation, make recommendations about the optimal treatment strategy of patients with N+ disease, explain the role of elective neck treatment in patients with N0 disease, and comment on treatment of patients with late cervical metastases that require salvage therapy, using the literature review of the incidence and treatment of neck disease in patients with esthesioneuroblastoma. This review revealed an approximately 5-8% incidence of cervical nodal metastasis at the time of presentation. Combined modality therapy with surgery and radiotherapy is recommended to treat the N+ neck at the time of diagnosis and later. Chemotherapy may have a role combined with radiation treatment, but there are little data to support this. There is limited evidence to substantiate the use of elective neck dissection or elective radiotherapy in the clinically and radiologically N0 neck. Patients who have late cervical metastases have a clear survival advantage (59 vs. 14%) when treated with combined surgery and radiotherapy relative to single modality methods alone. The results indicate that the management of the neck in esthesioneuroblastoma continues to be a significant challenge in the treatment algorithm of these complex patients.

Radiotherapy for esthesioneuroblastoma: is elective nodal irradiation warranted in the multimodality treatment approach?

PURPOSE

The role of elective nodal irradiation (ENI) in radiotherapy for esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) has not been clearly defined. We analyzed treatment outcomes of patients with ENB and the frequency of cervical nodal failure in the absence of ENI.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Between August 1996 and December 2007, we consulted with 19 patients with ENB regarding radiotherapy. Initial treatment consisted of surgery alone in 2 patients; surgery and postoperative radiotherapy in 4; surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy in 1; surgery, postoperative radiotherapy, and chemotherapy in 3; and chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy or concurrent chemoradiotherapy in 5. Five patients did not receive planned radiotherapy because of disease progression. Including 2 patients who received salvage radiotherapy, 14 patients were treated with radiotherapy. Elective nodal irradiation was performed in 4 patients with high-risk factors, including 3 with cervical lymph node metastasis at presentation.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients were analyzable, with a median follow-up of 27 months (range, 7-64 months). The overall 3-year survival rate was 73.4%. Local failure occurred in 3 patients (21.4%), regional cervical failure in 3 (21.4%), and distant failure in 2 (14.3%). No cervical nodal failure occurred in patients treated with combined systemic chemotherapy regardless of ENI. Three cervical failures occurred in the 4 patients treated with ENI or neck dissection (75%), none of whom received systemic chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

ENI during radiotherapy for ENB seems to play a limited role in preventing cervical nodal failure. Omitting ENI may be an option if patients are treated with a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Induction chemotherapy in the management of head and neck cancer

The strategy of induction chemotherapy prior to planned definitive local therapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma has been studied for over 30 years, and appears to have a role in select clinical situations. Here we review landmark studies regarding induction chemotherapy, both in the pre-taxane era and in the current taxane era, and we address some of the unresolved questions regarding the role of induction chemotherapy in head and neck cancer.