Abstract
Eleven cases (10.8%) of field cancerization were found among 102 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the hypopharynx and cervical esophagus at the Center for Adult Diseases, Osaka, from September, 1978 through November, 1983. Nine were males and two were females.
In only one of the 11 cases of field cancerization was the carcinoma, radiationinduced. This patient developed squamous cell carcinoma of the hypopharynx and papillary adenocarcinoma of the thyroid 28 years after radiation therapy for tuberculous cervical adenitis.
Since unexpected local recurrences are due mainly to inadequate resection, the concept of field cancerization must be considered in surgical treatment.
We stressed in this report the value of esophagoscopy with Lugol's solution spraying method and the need for careful long-term follow-up of these patients.
