Non-Hodgkins lymphoma of the head and neck: experience in the Grampian area

Abstract

The records of 44 cases of non-Hodgkins lymphoma (NHL) presenting to the ear, nose and throat department in the Grampian area from 1980-1988 were examined in relation to site of occurrence, histology, age at presentation, clinical stage, treatment and survival. The median age was 67 years and there was a preponderance of high grade histology, especially in disease affecting the tonsil. Most deaths occurred in the first year; patients with high grade disease and those in stages three and four had a significantly poorer survival during the first year. The site of disease had no influence on survival.

B-cell lymphoma with extensive cutaneous involvement presenting to the ENT surgeon

“…High-grade NHL is more common in the tonsil than other sites in the head and neck but the site does not appear to alter the prognosis (Neilly et al, 1990).…”

“…It is suggested that after one year, the prognosis may be independent of initial staging and histology (Neilly et al, 1990).…”