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Head and Neck Cancer: An Issue of Surgical Oncology Clinics of North America

Dean Cox

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Head and Neck Cancer An Issue of Surgical Oncology Clinics of North America (The Clinics: Surgery 3)

Head and Neck Cancer, An Issue of Surgical Oncology Clinics of North America (The Clinics: Surgery Book 3)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14045 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	609 pages
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This issue of Surgical Oncology Clinics of North America focuses on Head and Neck Cancer. Articles will include:

Epidemiology of Head and Neck Cancer
Staging of Head and Neck Cancers
Molecular Biology of Head and Neck Cancer
Imaging of Head and Neck Cancer
Treatment of Early Stage Oral Cavity Cancer
Treatment of Locally Advanced Oral Cavity Cancer
Treatment of Oropharyngeal Cancer
Treatment of Hypopharyngeal Cancer
Treatment of Laryngeal Cancer
Treatment of Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinus Cancer
Treatment of Salivary Gland Cancer
Treatment of Thyroid Cancer
Treatment of Skin Cancer of the Head and Neck
Reconstructive Surgery for Head and Neck Cancer
Palliative Care for Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer is a complex and challenging disease. The articles in this issue provide a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancer. The articles are written by leading experts in the field and provide a valuable resource for clinicians who care for patients with head and neck cancer.

Epidemiology of Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer is the sixth leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The incidence of head and neck cancer has been increasing in recent years, due in part to the increasing use of tobacco and alcohol. The most common type of head and neck cancer is oral cavity cancer, followed by laryngeal cancer, pharyngeal cancer, and nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer.

The risk factors for head and neck cancer include:

Tobacco use
Alcohol use
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
Exposure to asbestos
Certain occupations, such as construction and woodworking

Staging of Head and Neck Cancers

The stage of head and neck cancer is determined by the size and location of the tumor, the presence of lymph node involvement, and the presence of distant metastases. The stage of head and neck cancer is important for determining the prognosis and treatment options.

There are four stages of head and neck cancer:

Stage I: The tumor is small and localized to the site of origin.
Stage II: The tumor is larger and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage III: The tumor is larger and has spread to more distant lymph nodes.
Stage IV: The tumor has spread to distant organs, such as the lungs or bones.

Molecular Biology of Head and Neck Cancer

The molecular biology of head and neck cancer is complex and involves a number of different genetic mutations. These mutations can lead to the development of cancer by causing cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. Some of the most common genetic mutations in head and neck cancer include:

Mutations in the TP53 gene
Mutations in the RB1 gene
Mutations in the EGFR gene
Mutations in the HER2 gene

Imaging of Head and Neck Cancer

Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis and staging of head and neck cancer. A variety of imaging techniques can be used, including:

Computed tomography (CT) scans
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
Positron emission tomography (PET) scans

Imaging can help to determine the size and location of the tumor, the presence of lymph node involvement, and the presence of distant metastases.

Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer

The treatment of head and neck cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumor, and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:

Surgery
Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy
Immunotherapy

Surgery is the primary treatment for most head and neck cancers. Surgery can be used to remove the tumor, as well as any nearby lymph nodes that may be involved with cancer. Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be used to kill cancer cells that have spread to other parts of the body. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy are newer treatment options that are being used to treat head and neck cancer.

Reconstructive Surgery for Head and Neck Cancer

Reconstructive surgery is often necessary after surgery for head and neck cancer. Reconstructive surgery can help to restore the patient's appearance and function. Reconstructive surgery may involve:

Skin grafts
Flap surgery
Bone grafts

Reconstructive surgery can help to improve the patient's quality of life and self-esteem.

Palliative Care for Head and Neck Cancer

Palliative care is important for patients with head and neck cancer. Palliative care can help to relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and support the patient and their family. Palliative care may include:

Pain management
Symptom management
Emotional support
Spiritual support

Palliative care can help to improve the patient's quality of life and support them through their illness.

Head and neck cancer is a complex and challenging disease. The articles in this issue of Surgical Oncology Clinics of North America provide a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancer. The articles are written by leading experts in the field and provide a valuable resource for clinicians who care for patients with head and neck cancer.

Head and Neck Cancer, An Issue of Surgical Oncology Clinics of North America (The Clinics: Surgery Book 3)

5 out of 5