head and neck cancer

Head and Neck Cancer: An Overview

Head and neck cancer refers to cancers that start in the head and neck area, which includes various tissues such as the mouth, throat, nasal cavity, sinuses, lips, and salivary glands. This type of cancer is a broad term that encompasses epithelial malignancies that arise in different parts of the head and neck region.

Types of Head and Neck Cancer

There are several types of head and neck cancers, including:

• Cancers that start in the mouth (oral cavity)
• Cancers that start in the throat (pharynx)
• Cancers that start in the nasal cavity and sinuses
• Cancers that start in the salivary glands
• Cancers that start in the larynx (voice box)

Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer

The most common symptom of head and neck cancer is a persistent sore or lump in the affected area. Other symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, breathing, or speaking, as well as changes in voice or hearing.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of head and neck cancer is not known, certain risk factors have been identified, including:

• Tobacco use (smoking and chewing)
• Alcohol consumption
• Exposure to certain chemicals and substances
• Family history of head and neck cancer

Treatment Options

Treatment for head and neck cancer typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The goal of treatment is to remove the tumor and prevent its spread.

References:

• [1] Head and neck cancers are cancers that start in the head and neck area. There are many kinds of cancer that can happen in the head and neck.
• [2] Head and neck cancer includes cancers that affect your mouth, throat or other parts of your head and neck.
• [3] Cancer that forms in certain areas of the head and neck, including tissues in the nasal cavity (the hollow space inside the nose), sinuses, lips, mouth, ...
• [4] Dec 22, 2023 — Head and neck cancer is the name for cancers that develop in the mouth, nose and sinuses, salivary glands, and throat and voice box (larynx).
• [5] by A Argiris · 2008 · Cited by 2594 — Head and neck cancer is a broad term that encompasses epithelial malignancies that arise in the paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, oral cavity, pharynx, and ...
• [6] Head and neck cancers can have many different names depending on where the cancer starts. For example, cancers that start in the throat (pharynx), can be called ...
• [7] by D Owens · 2022 · Cited by 26 — Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a group of epithelial malignancies involving the upper shared respiratory/digestive tract (lips, oral cavity, ...

Common Signs and Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer can manifest in various ways, depending on the location and type of cancer. Here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

• Mouth or tongue sore that doesn't heal: A persistent sore or ulcer in the mouth or on the tongue can be a sign of oral cavity cancer [2].
• Lump in the throat, mouth, or neck: A noticeable lump or swelling in these areas can indicate head and neck cancer [1], [5].
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): Trouble swallowing food or liquids can be a symptom of laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer [3].
• Pain when swallowing: Pain or discomfort while eating or drinking can also be a sign of head and neck cancer [1], [5].
• Hoarseness or coughing: Changes in the voice or persistent coughing can indicate laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer [3].
• Breathing problems: Shortness of breath, wheezing, or other breathing difficulties can be symptoms of head and neck cancer [5].
• Bad breath (halitosis): Persistent bad breath can be a sign of oral cavity cancer [4].

It's essential to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

References: [1] Head and neck cancer symptoms may include a sore in the mouth and pain when swallowing. [2] A mouth or tongue sore that doesn't heal can be a sign of oral cavity cancer. [3] Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer symptoms include coughing, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and throat soreness. [4] Symptoms of cancers in specific areas of the head and neck include a white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth. [5] About the signs and symptoms of head and neck cancer: pain or bleeding, swelling, breathing problems, bad breath (halitosis), changes to eating, speaking, and swallowing.

Diagnostic Tests for Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer diagnosis involves a combination of physical examinations, imaging tests, and biopsies to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its extent. Here are some common diagnostic tests used:

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A CT scan uses specialized X-ray equipment to create detailed 3D images of the mouth, neck, throat, or other affected areas [4].
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI scan uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the head and neck region [5].
• Ultrasound: This non-invasive test uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the internal structures of the head and neck [5].
• Biopsy: A biopsy is the only sure way to know if you have cancer. During a biopsy, a tiny piece (called a sample) of tissue is removed from the changed area or tumor [6].
• Endoscopy: This test involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera and light on the end into the mouth, throat, or other affected areas to visualize the internal structures [3].
• Panendoscopy: A more extensive version of endoscopy that examines multiple areas simultaneously [8].

These diagnostic tests help doctors confirm the presence of head and neck cancer and determine its extent. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and improved outcomes.

References:

[1] NYU Langone's Perlmutter Cancer Center (brief description) [2] MSK-IMPACT™ testing approach [3] Endoscopy, head MRI, CT of the sinuses, head CT, panoramic dental x-ray, dental ... [4] Computed tomography (CT) scan: Specialized X-ray equipment to create detailed 3D images of the mouth, neck, throat, or other ... [5] Tests to diagnose head and neck cancers could include examinations, biopsies and imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT and MRI scans. [6] A biopsy is the only sure way to know if you have cancer. During a biopsy, a tiny piece (called a sample) of tissue is removed from the changed area or tumor. [7] City of Hope uses advanced imaging, biopsy procedures and genomic testing to ensure the most accurate head and neck cancer diagnosis. [8] Head and neck cancers may be discovered in multiple ways. A doctor or dentist may find the first evidence during a routine exam or oral, head and neck screening ...

Treatment Options for Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer treatment often involves a combination of therapies to manage the disease effectively. One of the primary treatment options is chemotherapy, which uses powerful drugs to attack cancer cells throughout the body.

Chemotherapy Drugs Used for Head and Neck Cancer

Several chemotherapy drugs are commonly used to treat head and neck cancer, including:

• Cisplatin
• Carboplatin
• Docetaxel (Taxotere)
• Paclitaxel
• Capecitabine (Xeloda)
• Fluorouracil (5FU)

These drugs can be given alone or in combination with other treatments to manage the disease.

Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

In addition to chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy are also used to treat head and neck cancer. Targeted therapy uses medications that specifically target cancer cells, while immunotherapy stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells.

• Cetuximab (Erbitux) is a targeted therapy drug approved by the FDA for treating head and neck squamous cell cancer.
• Nivolumab and pembrolizumab are immunotherapy drugs approved by the FDA for treating head and neck cancer.
• Olaparib, a PARP inhibitor, has shown promise in treating certain types of head and neck cancers.

Other Treatment Options

Chemotherapy is often used before or during surgery to shrink tumors and make them easier to remove. Radiation therapy may also be used to treat head and neck cancer, either alone or in combination with chemotherapy.

References:

• [1] Chemotherapy drugs used for head and neck cancer · cisplatin · carboplatin · docetaxel (Taxotere) · paclitaxel · capecitabine (Xeloda) · fluorouracil (5FU)
• [4] Chemotherapy is a treatment for head and neck cancer that uses powerful drugs to attack cancer cells.
• [8] KEYTRUDA is a prescription medicine used to treat a kind of cancer called head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC).
• [9] The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two types of immunotherapy to treat head and neck cancer: nivolumab and pembrolizumab.
• [11] The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved targeted therapy drugs for head and neck cancer include Cetuximab (Erbitux) and Larotrectinib (Vitrakvi).

Differential Diagnosis of Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer, also known as squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN), can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity in symptoms with other conditions. The differential diagnosis of head and neck cancer involves considering various factors such as age, presenting location, and symptoms.

Common Differential Diagnoses

• Lymphomas: Lymphomas are a type of blood cancer that can affect the head and neck region. According to [5], lymphomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of head and neck masses.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC is a type of skin cancer that can occur on the lips, mouth, or throat. It's essential to differentiate SCC from other types of cancers, such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma [5].
• Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a rare type of cancer that affects the nasopharynx. According to [6], it's crucial to consider this condition in the differential diagnosis of head and neck cancers.
• Thyroid Cancer: Thyroid cancer can also present as a mass in the neck, making it essential to differentiate it from other types of head and neck cancers [4].
• Lymphadenopathy: Lymphadenopathy refers to the enlargement of lymph nodes, which can be caused by various conditions, including infections or cancers. According to [7], it's crucial to consider lymphadenopathy in the differential diagnosis of head and neck masses.
• Branchial Anomalies: Branchial anomalies are congenital masses that can occur in the neck region. According to [9], these should be considered in the differential diagnosis of head and neck masses.

Key Considerations

When differentiating head and neck cancer from other conditions, it's essential to consider the following factors:

• Age: The age of the patient is a critical factor in determining the likelihood of various conditions. According to [4], age should be the primary consideration in the differential diagnosis of head and neck mass lesions.
• Presenting Location: The location of the mass in the head and neck region can also provide clues about the underlying condition. For example, nasopharyngeal carcinoma typically presents as a mass in the nasopharynx [6].
• Symptoms: Symptoms such as pain, swelling, or difficulty swallowing can also help differentiate between various conditions.

References

[4] by HS Chang — For the differential diagnosis of head and neck mass lesions, the age and presenting locations should be the primary considerations. [5] Mar 5, 2024 — Lymphomas of the Head and Neck Differential Diagnoses; Other neoplasms · Squamous cell carcinoma. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma ; Generalized ... [6] by A Argiris · 2008 · Cited by 2591 — Diagnosis and staging​​ Histological variants of SCCHN are rare and include verrucous, basaloid, spindle cell, and adenosquamous carcinomas. Poorly ... [7] by J Godzinski · 2011 · Cited by 2 — Signs and symptoms of malignant head and neck tumors might seem more or less harmless like an enlarged lymph node or unusual swelling, ear ache ... [9] by E SCHWETSCHENAU · 2002 · Cited by 115 — Congenital masses, such as branchial anomalies and thyroglossal duct cysts, must be considered in the differential diagnosis. Neoplasms (benign ...