Metastasis of untreated head and neck cancer to percutaneous gastrostomy tube exit sites

Abstract Background Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) has become a mainstay in providing enteral access for patients with obstructive head and neck tumors. PEG tube placement is considered safe and complications are infrequent. Methods A comprehensive review of the literature in MEDLINE (1962-2011) was performed. We report herein 3 new cases. Results The literature search revealed 43 previous cases. The interval between PEG placement and diagnosis of metastasis ranged from 1 to 24 months. Conclusions Metastatic cancer should be considered in patients with head and neck cancer that have persistent, unexplained skin changes at PEG site, anemia, or guaiac positive stools without a clear etiology. The direct implantation of tumor cells through instrumentation is the most likely explanation, although hematogenous and/or lymphatic seeding is also a possibility. Our review of the literature and clinical experience indicate that the “pull” technique of PEG placement may directly implant tumor cells at the gastrostomy site.