A pt. with Ca tongue is found to have lymph nodes in the lower neck. The t/t of choice for the lymph nodes is
**Core Concept**
The treatment of choice for lymph nodes in the lower neck due to metastasis from tongue cancer involves a multidisciplinary approach, considering the potential for neck dissection and radiation therapy. The primary goal is to control the spread of cancer and prevent further metastasis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer involves surgical intervention, specifically a selective neck dissection, which is a treatment of choice for cervical lymph nodes with metastasis from tongue cancer. This procedure involves the removal of lymph nodes that are most likely to contain cancer, while preserving other important structures such as the accessory nerve and the spinal accessory nerve. The goal is to balance the removal of cancerous tissue with preservation of function and minimizing side effects.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not address the need for surgical intervention in the treatment of cervical lymph nodes with metastasis from tongue cancer. While chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used in conjunction with surgery, they are not the primary treatment for this condition.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the treatment of choice for cervical lymph nodes with metastasis from tongue cancer. A total neck dissection is a more extensive procedure that involves the removal of all lymph nodes in the neck, which is not always necessary for this condition.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the treatment of choice for cervical lymph nodes with metastasis from tongue cancer. While a selective neck dissection is a treatment option, it is not the only option, and the correct answer is more specific in its description.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to remember that the treatment of cervical lymph nodes with metastasis from tongue cancer involves a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the stage and extent of the disease, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences.
**Correct Answer: C. Selective neck dissection**