Imaging of metastatic cervical nodes: is CT helpful in differentiation of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) from non-SCC groups?

Abstract

Background: Cervical node metastasis is frequently encountered in CT neck of patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and non-(SCC). Differentiation between both entities carries its value on prognosis and choice of treatment plans. The purpose of the study was to compare between the SCC and non-SCC metastatic cervical adenopathies according to different imaging parameters with the use of comparative statistical analysis of any of these criteria. This was made by retrospectively studying 157 patients. Imaging analyzed the following parameters: nodal size, laterality, nodal levels, “grouping” of nodes, nodal shape, and “periphery,” as well as the presence or absence of nodal “necrosis.” Statistics are made to show significant differences between both groups. Results: The criterion of necrosis had statistical significance, being more prevalent among the SCC groups. Involvement of levels I, II, and supra clavicular was more prevalent among SCC patients. Age and sex had also some statistical significance. Conclusions: The combination of different imaging parameters could distinguish SCC from non-SCC. Nodal “necrosis”—(excluding “cystic”)—combined with involvement of nodal levels II and being in older-aged men were statistically significant in the SCC compared to non-SCC.