A systematic review of predictive models for recurrence and mortality in patients with tongue cancer

Introduction: Predictive models must meet clinical/methodological standards to be used in clinical practice. However, no critique of those models relating to mortality/recurrence in tongue cancer has been done bearing in mind the accepted standards.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review evaluating the methodology and clinical applicability of predictive models for mortality/recurrence in tongue cancer published in MEDLINE and Scopus. For each model, we analysed (domains of CHARMS, Critical Appraisal and Data Extraction for Systematic Reviews of Prediction Modelling Studies) the following: source of data, participants, outcome to be predicted, candidate predictors, sample size, missing data, model development, model performance, model evaluation, results and interpretation and discussion.

Results: We found two papers that included eight prediction models, neither of which adhered to the CHARMS recommendations.

Conclusion: Given the quality of tongue cancer models, new studies following current consensus are needed to develop predictive tools applicable in clinical practice.