HEAD AND NECK CANCER

Overview and Facts

Head and neck cancer commonly starts in the squamous cells that line the moist, mucosal surfaces within the head and neck, known collectively as head and neck cancers (for example, inside the mouth, the nose, and the throat). These tumors of squamous cells are sometimes referred to as carcinomas of squamous cells in the head and neck. In the salivary glands, head and neck cancers may also start, but cancers of the salivary glands are comparatively rare.

Types and Symptoms

TYPES

The following are regions where head and neck cancer usually occur:

  • Oral cavity – It covers the lips.
  • Pharynx – The pharynx or throat is an approximately 5 inches long hollow tube.
  • Paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity – It is in the bones of the head around the nose paranasal sinuses that are tiny hollow holes. 
  • Salivary glands – The main salivary glands are found near the jawbone and on the bottom of the mouth.

SYMPTOMS

The following are signs that can affect particular regions of the head and neck:

  • Salivary glands – Inflammation under the chin or along the jawline, numbness of the facial muscles, or pain.
  • Paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity – Blocked sinuses; persistent sinus infections; nosebleeds; recurrent headaches, swelling or other eye symptoms; dental problems. 
  • Oral cavity – A white or red mark on the gums, lips, or lining of the mouth; inflammation of the jaw that induces; and mouth bleeding.
  • Pharynx – Breathing or speech difficulties; pain in the throat or neck; hearing issues.

Larynx – Pressure or ear pain after chewing.

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

A doctor reviews the medical records of a person, conducts a physical examination, and orders diagnostic testings and examinations in order to find what is causing the signs or symptoms of the condition in the head and neck area.

When cancer is suspected, the doctor will like to learn about the level or the severity of the illness. Staging is used.

TREATMENT

An individual patient’s care or treatment plan depends on a variety of factors, including the precise stage of cancer, the exact location of the tumor, and the age and general health of the person. Radiation therapy, surgery, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, or a mixture of therapies can be used in care for head and neck cancer.

Related Articles

TRICUSPID ATRESIA

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Tricuspid atresia is a congenital heart defect characterized by the absence [...]

TOXIC MEGACOLON

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Toxic megacolon is a rare but serious complication of inflammatory bowel [...]

TOXIC EPIDERMAL NECROLYSIS

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis is a rare but severe and potentially life-threatening [...]