Outcome and toxicity profile after brachytherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal vestibule.

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcome and toxicity profile after primary brachytherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal vestibule. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted for patients with Wang classification T1 to 2 cN0 squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal vestibule who received primary treatment with brachytherapy between 1992 and 2010. Tumor control, acute skin, mucosal, and late cartilage toxicity were scored. RESULTS Of 60 patients (T1, 50; T2, 10), 38 were treated with an interstitial implant and 22 by a mold technique. The 3-year local, regional, and locoregional control rates were 91%, 93%, and 84%, respectively. Tumor diameter <1.5 cm resulted in a better local (p = .02) and regional (p = .05) control. The cumulative incidence of moist skin desquamation and confluent mucositis was 64% and 82%, respectively. The actuarial incidence of chondritis and/or chondronecrosis was 19%. CONCLUSION Primary brachytherapy for Wang T1 to 2 squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal vestibule offers excellent tumor control rates with acceptable toxicity and preservation of anatomy.