Although positron emission tomography computed tomography has proven diagnostic and staging value in head and neck carcinoma, it does not have optimal sensitivity or specificity. The positron emission tomography computed tomography fluorodeoxyglucose standardised uptake value has been shown to be associated with carcinoma stage. This study evaluated the impact of major clinicopathological factors on the standardised uptake value at the primary site and at neck lymph node metastases.

Two hundred and forty-three oral cavity and laryngopharyngeal carcinoma patients who underwent positron emission tomography computed tomography were included. Correlation between the positron emission tomography computed tomography standardised uptake value and various clinicopathological factors was analysed.

A positive correlation was found between the standardised uptake value and the size and depth of tumour infiltration, and lymph node positivity. Higher standardised uptake values were seen for more advanced tumour stages. The presence of perineural invasion, lymphatic invasion and extracapsular spread were all associated with increased standardised uptake values.

Most of the clinicopathological features of head and neck carcinoma which are well known to be poor prognostic factors have a significant impact on positron emission tomography computed tomography fluorodeoxyglucose standardised uptake value.