Head and Neck Cancer: An Issue of Otolaryngologic Clinics

Squamous cell carcinoma is a kind of cancer that develops from specific type of cells known as squamous cells. These cells are present in the skin's outer layer as well as mucous membranes. Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) occurs in the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and throat. The type of HNSCC depends on the site where the carcinoma has developed. For instance, carcinoma may occur in the voice box (larynx) or the lower part of the throat near the larynx (hypopharynx). The common symptoms of head and neck cancer include a sore in the head and neck region that does not heal, bleeding in the mouth or the throat, double vision or unexplained weight loss. Diagnosis of head and neck cancer involves carrying out a tissue biopsy for detecting the presence of cancerous cells. The treatment is based on the size, location and stage of the tumor progression. The available treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, etc. The various advancements in the study of head and neck cancer are glanced at and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail in this book. It will provide comprehensive knowledge to the readers.