A patient with oral cavity SCC has a T3N0M0 lesion of the floor of mouth. Elective (prophylactic) neck dissection is recommended because the risk of occult cervical nodal metastasis at this T stage is approximately:
- A 5–10%
- B 15–20%
- C 30–40% ✓
- D 60–70%
Correct answer: C. 30–40%
Explanation
For T3 oral cavity cancers, the rate of occult nodal metastasis is approximately 30–40%. The threshold that justifies elective neck dissection is generally >20% risk of occult disease. Floor of mouth lesions, regardless of T stage, carry a high propensity for early nodal spread given rich lymphatic drainage. Elective selective neck dissection (levels I–III) reduces regional recurrence and allows accurate nodal staging to guide adjuvant therapy.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.