The Value of Computed Tomography in Recurrent Laryngeal Cancer Following Organ Preservation Therapy

Aim: This study aims to assess the accuracy of computed tomography (CT) in detecting recurrent laryngeal tumors after failed chemoradiation therapy (CRT). Background: Local recurrence of laryngeal tumors following CRT has been reported in approximately 25%, yet it is often difficult to detect. Methods: Ten patients with laryngeal cancer who failed CRT and subsequently underwent salvage total laryngectomy were included. The laryngeal subsites involved in the tumor were identified based on postoperative pathology. The corresponding preoperative CT scans were selected for review by seven experts (head-and-neck surgeons or radiologists) who scored the extent of tumor spread on each scan on a 5-point scale, from no tumor detected to clearly visible tumor. Results: The rates of high tumor detectability (scores 4-5) varied according to laryngeal subsite, from 75% in the glottic region, to 45% in the subglottic region, and to 19% in the supraglottic region (P=0.01). The detectability rates were higher on scans performed 2 years or more after CRT. Conclusion: The CT evaluation of laryngeal cancer after CRT has limited value, particularly in the epiglottis and subglottis.