Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the maxilla.

Abstract

A series of 28 patients with an adenoid cystic carcinoma of the maxilla were treated at the Netherlands Cancer Institute. By observing these patients for a very long period of time, the poor prognosis confirms the findings in the literature. Some doubt is thrown on the applicability of the concept of complete removal of the tumor, particularly in the diagnosing phase. For a possible curative effect, the suggestion is made to treat these adenoid cystic carcinoma patients with a "three modality therapy." This combination therapy includes regional infusion with fluorouracil, followed by maxillary resection, sequentially followed by radiotherapy. The "inoperable" group must be treated with only radiotherapy for a palliative effect.