Knowra Head and neck cancer Head and neck cancer Head and neck cancer is a group of cancers arising in the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, nasal cavity, sinuses, or related tissues. Most are squamous cell carcinomas that begin in the mucosal lining.
Squamous cell carcinoma : A cancer of squamous epithelial cells, which line many surfaces and hollow organs. Most head and neck cancers arise from squamous cells lining the affected sites.
Human papillomavirus : A group of viruses that infect epithelial cells; some types cause cancers, including oropharyngeal cancer. HPV-associated oropharyngeal tumors differ biologically and often have a better prognosis.
Head and neck examination : A clinical assessment of the mouth, throat, nose, neck, and related structures. Direct examination helps locate suspicious lesions and enlarged neck nodes.
HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer : Oropharyngeal cancer driven by infection with high-risk human papillomavirus. It has distinct biology and prognosis from tobacco-related tumors in the same region.
Dysphagia : Difficulty swallowing caused by problems with the movement of food or liquid. Tumors and treatment can disrupt the muscles and structures needed for swallowing.
Oral cancer : Cancer arising in the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, or other oral tissues. It is the major head-and-neck cancer group arising in the mouth.
Tobacco smoking : The inhalation of smoke from burning tobacco, exposing tissues to carcinogens. It is a major preventable cause of cancers across several head-and-neck sites.
Biopsy : The removal of tissue or cells for examination to diagnose disease. A tissue sample establishes the cancer diagnosis and often its type.
HPV-negative oropharyngeal cancer : Oropharyngeal cancer without evidence that high-risk human papillomavirus caused the tumor. Its risk profile and outcomes differ from HPV-positive disease.
Dysphonia : Difficulty producing voice, often experienced as hoarseness or altered vocal quality. Laryngeal tumors and their treatment can affect the voice.
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