Prognostic factors for lymph node metastasis from advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the skin of the trunk and extremities
2008

Prognostic Factors for Lymph Node Metastasis in Skin Cancer

Sample size: 57 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Vinicius de Lima Vazquez, Teoclito Sachetto, Natalia Martins Perpetuo, Andre Lopes Carvalho

Primary Institution: Hospital de Cancer de Barretos

Hypothesis

What are the risk factors for lymph node metastasis in advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the skin?

Conclusion

Local advanced tumors are at risk of lymph node metastasis, particularly those with previous lesions, and T4 tumors have a worse prognosis.

Supporting Evidence

  • Fifteen patients had previous skin lesions.
  • T3 tumors had better survival compared to T4 tumors.
  • Eleven N0 patients developed lymph node metastasis during follow-up.

Takeaway

This study looked at patients with advanced skin cancer and found that those with previous skin problems are more likely to have cancer spread to their lymph nodes.

Methodology

Retrospective review of clinical variables in 57 patients with locally advanced SCC.

Potential Biases

Referral bias to a tertiary cancer center may affect the results.

Limitations

The study is retrospective with a relatively small sample size and heterogeneous treatment options.

Participant Demographics

34 men and 23 women, mean age 61.9 years, predominantly Caucasian and from urban areas.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.047

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1477-7819-6-73

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