Prognosis of Patients less than 40 Years of Age with Squamous Cell Cancer of the Oral Tongue
Introduction: Controversy exists about the prognosis of squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue between young and older patients. Our objective was to evaluate age as a prognostic factor in oral tongue cancer. Materials and methods: A retrospective study was conducted by reviewing charts of 61 patients. They were divided into two age groups, below 40 years and above 40 years. Data regarding epidemiology pathology report, tumor differentiation, staging, treatment and outcome were obtained. The length of survival and disease recurrence was calculated and compared in this two age group. Statistical analysis was performed using student, t test. Results: The result showed no significant difference in prognosis, tumor differentiation or staging related to age in oral tongue cancer. Conclusion: Although age is not a significant prognostic factor in oral tongue cancer, the disease etiology is likely different, we recommend prompt and aggressive treatment of young patients.