Association between Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck and Serum Folate and Homocysteine

The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum levels of folate and homocysteine in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) and to correlate them with the clinical stage. An attempt was made to associate the results with the effects of smoking. Materials and Methods: Serum levels of folate and homocysteine were measured in 150 patients with histologically-proven SCCHN before any treatment and in 150 healthy volunteers (77 smokers and 73 non-smokers). Results: The study indicated a positive correlation between hyperhomocysteinemia and hypofolatemia and the presence of SCCHN. Folate deficiency and high levels of homocysteine were noted in a large number of healthy smokers. Conclusion: If metabolic disorders of the methionine cycle are confirmed as risk factors for SCCHN, folate as a dietary supplement might play a role in chemoprevention and the post-treatment care of SCCHN patients.