Predictive value of MR imaging-dependent and non-MR imaging-dependent parameters for recurrence of laryngeal cancer after radiation therapy.

PURPOSE

To determine the predictive value of several clinical and radiologic parameters for recurrence of laryngeal cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty previously untreated patients underwent magnetic resonance (MR) imaging before radiation therapy with curative intent. Tumor volume was calculated from T1-weighted MR images. Cartilage was considered invaded by pathologic tissue if it had intermediate signal intensity on T1-weighted spin-echo (SE) MR images and high signal intensity on T2-weighted SE MR images. The minimum follow-up was 2 years.

RESULTS

Parameters such as age, sex, histopathologic findings, and invasion of the vocal muscle or pre-epiglottic space were not significantly correlated with tumor recurrence. Logistic regression analysis showed three relevant contributors: cord mobility, as judged clinically, and tumor volume and, more significantly, cartilage invasion, as seen at MR imaging.

CONCLUSION

For untreated laryngeal cancer, MR imaging findings of tumor volume and cartilage invasion allow better patient selection for either radiation therapy or surgery. MR imaging is mandatory for T staging of laryngeal cancer.