Head and Neck Cancer: Clinical Aspects

Cancer is an uncontrolled growth of cells in one or more parts of the body. Formation of lumps, unusual bleeding, persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, and changes in bowel movements are all symptoms of cancer. Most cancers are caused by environmental and lifestyle factors that cause genetic abnormalities. Cancers of the larynx, throat, lips, mouth, nose and salivary glands are all examples of head and neck cancers. The risk of these cancers is increased by tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The head and neck cancers generally begin in the squamous cells that line the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck. Major symptoms of these cancers are lump formation in the neck, a painful sore in the mouth or throat that does not heal, difficulty in swallowing, and a change in voice. Chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of treatments may be used to treat head and neck cancer. This book presents various developments and researches that have been made with respect to the head and neck cancer. It will also provide interesting topics for research which interested readers can take up. Students, researchers, experts, and all associated with the study and treatment of head and neck cancer would benefit from this book.