The term head and neck cancer refers to a group of biologically similar cancers originating
from the upper aerodigestive tract, including the lip, oral cavity (mouth),
nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, pharynx, and larynx. Most head and neck
cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, originating from the mucosal lining (epithelium)
of these regions. Head and neck cancers often spread to the lymph nodes
of the neck, and this is often the first (and sometimes only) manifestation
of the disease at the time of diagnosis. Head and neck cancer is strongly associated
with certain environmental and lifestyle risk factors, including tobacco
smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain strains of the sexually transmitted human
papillomavirus. Head and neck cancer is highly curable if detected early,
usually with some form of surgery although chemotherapy and radiation therapy may
also play an important role.
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas
(HNSCC's) make up the vast majority of head and neck cancers, and arise from
mucosal surfaces throughout this anatomic region. These include tumors of the
nasal cavities, paranasal sinuses, oral cavity, nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx,
and larynx.
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