Squamous cell carcinoma of base of tongue in a patient with Fanconi's anemia treated with radiation therapy: case report and review of literature.

BACKGROUND Fanconi's anemia (FA) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by congenital anomalies, progressive aplastic anemia, and a predisposition for malignancies. Solid tumors in the head and neck region, especially in the tongue, are rarely observed. Management of these patients is a challenge because of hematological complications and increased toxicities. METHODS We report a case of Fanconi's anemia in a 27-year-old man with carcinoma of the base of tongue (T2N0M0) who was treated with radical radiation therapy to a dose of 70 Gy/35 fractions/51 days. We have also done in vitro radiosensitivity tests. RESULTS The patient tolerated the radiation treatment well and completed it without any interruptions. In vitro studies did not show any increased radiosensitivity in this patient. CONCLUSION Head and neck cancer in a patient with FA requires individualized treatment. The decision about opting for different modalities should be based on a balanced approach with respect to locoregional control and toxicities of the treatment.