Abstract:

Early tongue squamous cell carcinoma has a high incidence rate and easily exhibits lymph node and capsule micrometastases. Studies show that micrometastases indicate a poor prognosis. Hence, clinical evaluation is often difficult. Early diagnosis and treatment are achieved through clinical ultrasound, computerized tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and other auxiliary examinations. However, these methods also have advantages and disadvantages. According to studies, lymph node metastasis in the neck region during early tongue squamous cell carcinoma follows a certain law, which is simultaneously related to several factors. These factors include pathology classification, nerve vascular invasion, and infiltration depth. Accordingly, the management of a clinically node-negative neck in this context remains controversial. The current approach for this case involves an elective neck dissection and a “wait-and-watch policy”. The early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of tongue squamous cell carcinoma remain as problems. This study aims to summarize the preceding data.

Key words: tongue squamous cell carcinoma, lymph node, neck metastasis