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Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that originate in the tissues and organs of the head and neck region. This area includes the oral cavity (mouth), pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, and salivary glands. These cancers typically develop in the mucosal lining of these structures.
ORAL CANCER
Oral cancer refers to cancers that arise from the lips, the anterior two-third part of the tongue, the gums, the inner lining of cheeks (buccal mucosa), the hard palate, and the small area behind the wisdom teeth (retromolar trigone). Majority of the oral cancers are squamous cell carcinoma.
SALIVARY GLAND TUMORS
Salivary gland tumors refer to tumors that originate from the major salivary glands (parotid, submandibular and sublingual glands) and sometimes from minor salivary glands. The largest of the major salivary gland is the parotid gland, located in front of and below the ears on both sides. Submandibular glands are located below the mandible or jaw bone on either side. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), with malignant tumors being less common but more concerning due to their potential to spread to other parts of the body.
CANCERS OF LARYNX AND HYPOPHARYNX
Carcinoma of the larynx and hypopharynx refers to cancer that develops in the tissues of the larynx, commonly known as the voice box and hypopharynx, which is a funnel shaped area at the beginning of the food passage adjacent to the larynx. The larynx is located at the top of the windpipe (trachea) and contains the vocal cords, which are essential for speech and breathing.
THYROID DISORDERS
Thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland located in front of the neck overlying the voicebox (larynx) and the windpipe (trachea). It is the largest endocrine organ of the body and secretes hormones (T3 and T4) being regulated by another hormone called TSH secreted from the pituitary gland. Disorders of the thyroid gland can be either a hormonal imbalance affecting vital functions like cardiovascular and metabolic functions or can be a structural abnormality (formation of nodules-benign or malignant).
SINONASAL MALIGNANCIES
Sinonasal malignant tumors are rare tumors that constitute about 3% of tumors in the upper respiratory tract. Only a fraction arises at the nasal cavity and majority of the rest arise from paranasal sinuses (maxillary sinus, ethmoid sinus, frontal and sphenoid sinus). Their proximity to vital structures such as the brain, optic nerves, and internal carotid artery pose significant challenges for their treatment and may be the source of significant morbidity to the patients.