Nationwide Incidence Trends of Pediatric Parotid Malignancy in Korea and a Retrospective Analysis of Single-Institution Surgical Experience of Parotidectomy
10.21593/kjhno/2024.40.2.7
- Author:
Hyun Seong KIM
1
;
Seo Young KIM
;
Eun-Jae CHUNG
;
Seong Keun KWON
;
Soon-Hyun AHN
;
Yuh-Seog JUNG
;
Jungirl SEOK
Author Information
1. Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:
Korean Journal of Head and Neck Oncology
2024;40(2):7-16
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Background/Objectives:Pediatric parotid malignancies are rare but represent a critical subset of head and neck cancers. This study integrates nationwide incidence trends in Korea with detailed surgical outcomes from a single tertiary institution to better understand the characteristics and management of these tumors.Materials & Methods: Nationwide data from the Korea Central Cancer Registry (1999-2019) were analyzed to assess trends in pediatric parotid malignancy incidence. A retrospective review was conducted on 31 pediatric parotidectomy cases at a tertiary hospital from 2011 to 2024. Clinical data, surgical methods, pathology results, and follow-up outcomes were examined.
Results:Nationwide analysis revealed an annual mean of 9.0 ± 4.0 cases of pediatric parotid malignancies, with a significant rise in incidence among patients aged 10-19 years (APC 5.4%, 95% CI 1.1-9.8, p=0.016). Institutional data showed that the median age of patients underwent parotidectomy was 15.0 years, with males comprising 67.7%. Among 31 cases, 19 (61.3%) were benign, primarily pleomorphic adenomas (68.4%), and 12 (38.7%) were malignant, predominantly mucoepidermoid carcinoma (87.5%). Superficial or partial parotidectomy was the most common surgical approach (71.0%), and no unexpected complications or recurrences were observed.
Conclusion:Pediatric parotid malignancies in Korea exhibit rising incidence rates, particularly among teenagers. Surgical outcomes confirm the predominance of pleomorphic adenomas and mucoepidermoid carcinomas. Pediatric parotid surgery is a procedure with minimized complications and a promising prognosis. Tailored treatment strategies adapted to the unique characteristics of pediatric patients are essential to optimize outcomes.