Recurrent oral cancer and salvage options

Recurrence rates for oral squamous cell cancer are reported to occur in up to 30% of patients depending on initial disease stage presentation with most recurrences developing either locally or regionally within 3 years of initial therapy. Successful salvage therapy for recurrent disease will depend on numerous factors to include initial tumor staging and pathologic features, location and timing of recurrence, and initial treatment strategy rendered. This chapter will review current literature on the etiology, prognosis, and various treatment options available with regard to management of recurrent oral squamous cell carcinoma.