Head and neck cancer refers to a broad term encompassing a group of malignant tumors that develop in various anatomical regions of the head and neck. These regions include the oral cavity, tongue, lips, throat, larynx, sinuses, nasal cavity, salivary glands, and thyroid glands. Such cancerous growths can arise from the squamous cells lining these structures, hence they are predominantly classified as squamous cell carcinomas.
Head and neck cancers are typically characterized by abnormal cell growth that occurs in the mucous membranes, lining tissues, or glandular tissues within these specified regions. The disease can manifest with a variety of symptoms and signs, including persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, voice changes, hoarseness, the presence of lumps or masses in the neck area, chronic nasal congestion, or bloody discharge from the nose. Risk factors for head and neck cancer include tobacco and alcohol use, exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, poor oral hygiene, and a history of previous head and neck tumors.
Early detection of head and neck cancer is essential for successful treatment and improved prognosis. Common diagnostic methods employed include physical examination, medical imaging techniques, such as computed tomography scans and magnetic resonance imaging, and biopsy, which allows for a definitive histological confirmation of cancer. Treatment options for head and neck cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination thereof, depending on factors such as the specific location, stage of the disease, and overall health of the patient. Multidisciplinary care, involving specialists from various fields, is often utilized to tailor an individualized treatment plan for each patient. Additionally, supportive care and rehabilitation can help manage associated symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals living with head and neck cancer.
