Cancers of the Head & Neck
Cancers of the oral cavity and larynx are most common. Also considered head and neck cancers are those afflicting the gums, lips, cheek lining, hard palate, tongue, throat, salivary glands, nasal cavity, sinuses and trachea.
(A) Illustration of the Head & Neck area
Cancers of the Head & Neck
Cancers of the head and neck constitute a broad array of cancers. The region harbors numerous organs that are not only essential of basic biologic functions, but also critical for a person’s appearance, expression and social interactions.
Cancers may arise from the oral cavity, tongue, tonsil, throat (including voice box), nasal areas, and salivary glands among other areas (image A). Many cancers of the head and neck are associated with smoking and drinking, and some may be related to viruses, such as HPV (Human Papilloma Virus).
Depending on the site and pattern of spread of the cancer, tumors of the head and neck can cause structural deformations and impairment of such basic functions as swallowing and breathing. Moreover, various treatments used to treat cancers can induce added mutilations, thus worsening quality of life.
Cancers of the head and neck thus represent a challenge to manage. It often requires participation of a variety of professionals including surgeons, medical oncologists, dentists, and radiation oncologists.
Radiation therapy plays an important role in the management of head and neck cancers. Radiation is often given as the only treatment – as definitive treatment – with curative intent. This may be possible for some early stage tumors in certain areas. Sometimes radiation therapy is given with chemotherapy since they may work in synergy and increase chance of tumor control. Your cancer physicians can best guide you as to the best treatment plan – tailored to your situation.
One of the big advantages of radiotherapy in the management of head and neck cancers is that mutilating surgery can sometimes be avoided – surgery in such a sensitive area as the face, head and neck can cause physical disfigurement compromising a persons well being, self esteem and social interactions.
In certain situations, surgery for management of a head and neck tumor may be unavoidable, due to disease extent. Radiation therapy is sometimes given after surgery to improve chances of cure, since very often, microscopic disease may be left behind after the operation.
For more information see: CyberKnife Centers of San Diego
