Risk factors for lymph node metastases of facial cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract Purpose Determining the risk factors for lymph node metastases of facial cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and identifying their value for predicting nodal spread. Material and methods Data on 99 patients were examined retrospectively. Conditions such as tumor staging, tumor thickness, location, histological grading, R1-resection, local recurrence, lymph node metastases, and neurovascular and lymphovascular invasion were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using a logistic regression analysis and Fisher's test. Results Logistic regression analysis indicates that poor differentiation, R1-resection, and periorbital location are high risk factors for nodal spread in facial cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusion Patients who show poorly differentiated facial cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and/or have had previous R1-resection might benefit from treatment of regional lymph nodes.