Mitochondrial DNA copy number is associated with diagnosis and prognosis of head and neck cancer

Context: Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number correlates with tumor pathology in some cancers. Objective: To investigate mtDNA copy number in head and neck cancer (HNC). Materials and methods: mtDNA copy number was determined and compared between HNC patients and malignancy-free controls. Results: The mtDNA copy number was significantly higher in HNC patients, increased with cancer progression and correlated negatively with patient survival. Discussion: mtDNA copy number appears to be associated with HNC stage and survival, but confirmation requires similar studies in larger cohorts. Conclusion: Studies to establish the nature of the relationship between mtDNA copy number and HNC are warranted.