Search

An interview with doctor G. K. Rath is presented. When asked about the burden of tobacco-related cancers, Rath points to the hazards it may cause to internal and external organs, particularly on the associated risks in breast cancer among postmenopausal women. Rath believes that the most important measure to prevent the abuse of tobacco is through health education. For Rath, the establishment of radiation oncology centers in India can be promoted through Public Private Partnership (PPP).

The author reflects on technological developments in radiation oncology in India. The intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) can be an effective tool to reduce radiation treatment morbidity. The image guided radiotherapy (IGRT) keeps track of organ motion and has the ability to deliver accurate treatment. The combination of radiofrequency ablation and brachytherapy is being explored as an aid to residual diseases after conventional treatment. He mentions the need to improve physician training.

Sarcomatoid carcinomas are rare tumors. These tumors have been reported at other sites, but head and neck origin is extremely uncommon. We report here a rare case of sarcomatoid carcinoma involving the maxilla. Only four such cases with maxillary origin have been discussed in English literature earlier. As compared to squamous cell carcinoma of maxilla, this variant is associated with poor prognosis and advanced disease at presentation, as was also seen in our case. There are no standard recommendations for management owing to the rarity of this histology. Surgery and radiotherapy form the mainstays of treatment. Exploration of the role of chemotherapy and novel targeted therapy agents is warranted in order to improve treatment results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]