Types of Head and Neck Cancers: A Detailed Overview

Types of Head and Neck Cancers: A Detailed Overview

Head and neck cancer is a general term that refers to cancers occurring within the oral cavity, throat or other parts of the head and neck. These tumours are also referred to as the squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. The complexity and delicacy of the head and neck region make it a critical area of concern when it comes to cancer. This type of cancer encompasses a multitude of structures vital for functions like breathing, eating, and sensory perception.

Understanding the nuances of head and neck cancer and advanced care options is pivotal in combating this formidable disease. Your cancer treatment plan will depend on several factors (cancer’s size, where it is located, and what types are involved) concerning your head and neck cancers. Your general health is taken into consideration by your doctor. Among the available treatment options, your oncologist can recommend radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and other relevant options as required.

Types of Head and Neck Cancers

The position of head and neck cancers determines the classification of these diseases. Squamous cell carcinoma, also known as cancer of the squamous cells, is the common cancer that causes the majority of them. Squamous cells are a kind of cell that is distributed throughout the body. They make up the skin’s outermost layer, which is where squamous cell carcinomas typically show up. Squamous cells, however, also encircle the mucous membranes of the body, such as those in the tongue, nose, throat, and mouth. As a result, squamous cells comprise most of the tissue in the head and neck area.

• Throat Cancer

The windpipe and oesophagus apertures are connected by the throat, which is a tube that runs from the sinuses. It consists of anatomical features like the tonsils, voice box, and base of the tongue. Throat cancer, which includes tumours of the tonsils, larynx, or pharynx, presents with symptoms such as continuous hoarseness, sore throat, dysphagia, or earache. Depending on where in the throat they begin, throat cancers are categorised. Treatment involves surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination, aiming for optimal outcomes. Lifestyle changes, including tobacco cessation and reduced alcohol intake, play pivotal roles in prevention.

• Oral Cavity Cancer

Oral cancer, also known as cancer of the oral cavity, originates in the oral cavity, which comprises the lips, gums, the front two-thirds of the tongue, and the floor and hard palate of the mouth. The tonsils, the back of the tongue, the oropharynx, and the region behind the mouth can all develop oropharyngeal cancer. Often linked to tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, HPV infection, or prolonged sun exposure, early detection through regular dental check-ups or self-examinations is crucial. Treatment involves surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination thereof, aiming for optimal outcomes.

• Pharyngeal Cancer

Tumour in the back of mouth, teeth and throat. Tonsil carcinoma is the most common of all oropharyngeal cancers. The Symptoms of this type of cancer are difficulty in swallowing, painful, continuous throat and ear pain.

• Laryngeal and Hypopharyngeal Cancer

The larynx called the voice box, is where laryngeal cancer begins. The larynx, which sits at the top of the windpipe that leads to the lungs, is essential for breathing and speaking because it houses the vocal cords. Hypopharyngeal carcinoma is the name for cancer that develops in the hypopharynx, or bottom part of the throat. Symptoms are hoarseness, persistent cough, and difficulty breathing.

• Nasopharyngeal Cancer

The nasopharynx, the top portion of the throat that joins the nasal cavity at the back of the nose, is where this kind of head and neck cancer develops. This cancer often exhibits symptoms like nasal congestion, recurrent nosebleeds, and neck lumps. Linked to the Epstein-Barr virus and genetic factors, diagnosis involves imaging and biopsies. Treatment comprises radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, offering improved prognosis with early intervention.

• Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinus Cancer

The nasal cavity serves as the conduit for airflow from the nostrils to the nasopharynx, the upper region of the throat. Little hollow spaces in the bones around the nasal cavity are called Paranasal sinuses. Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer affect these airway structures, showing symptoms like persistent congestion, nosebleeds, facial numbness, or pain. Associated with occupational exposures and sometimes HPV, early detection via imaging and biopsies is crucial. Treatment involves surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy tailored for better outcomes and improved quality of life.

• Salivary Gland Cancer

The salivary glands are located in front of the ears, inside the top cheekbones, behind the jaw, and beneath the floor of the mouth. Salivary gland squamous cell carcinomas are uncommon. The other types of cancer that are typically detected in the salivary glands include pleomorphic, mucoepidermoid, and adenoid cystic. Diagnosis involves imaging and biopsies. Treatment includes surgery, radiation, and sometimes chemotherapy, aiming for complete removal and preserving facial function, with prognosis varying based on the tumour type and stage.

Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP) Site in the Head and Neck

The primary site of cancer is the part of the body where it first appears. Cancers can spread from the initial location to different tissues throughout the body. Cancer cells are usually discovered in the lymph nodes in the head and neck area when there is cancer of unknown primary (CUP) in the head and neck, but the exact location of the cancer’s origin is unclear to medical professionals. Squamous cell cancers actually account for the majority of cancers with unclear origin seen in the head and neck, while they can also coexist alongside adenocarcinomas or other cancer forms. The concerned cancer doctors can choose the most effective course of therapy by identifying the cancer’s main location.

Cancers of the head and neck can occasionally spread to the lymph nodes present in the upper neck region. Thyroid, oesophagus, brain, and eye cancers are not usually classified as head and neck cancers despite their locations. Treatments for them differ from those for head and neck malignancies.

What are the Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancers?

Since the signs of head and neck cancer are frequently modest and might resemble less serious ailments like a cold or sore throat, the disease can be challenging to identify. Throat pain that does not go away is the most typical sign of head and neck cancer. The most common symptoms are-

• A prolonged sore throat.
• Frequent headaches.
• Pain during swallowing or chewing.
• Pain in the upper teeth.
• Changes in voice or hoarseness.
• Facial pain or numbness.
• A lump in the neck, throat, or mouth
• Persistent pain in the neck.
• Difficulty speaking or breathing.
• Chronic infections or earaches.
• Recurring sinus infections that are resistant to treatment.
• Bleeding from the nose, phlegm, or saliva.
• An ulcer that persists on the tongue or mouth.
• Red or white spot on your tongue, gums, or oral cavity.
• Swelling on the side of your face, neck, or jaw (which might make it difficult for your dentures to fit correctly).

Why choose Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka?

Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, is an unparalleled example of excellence, providing unmatched healthcare with the combination of state-of-the-art equipment, a highly skilled medical team, and a resolute dedication to patient-centred care. Our multidisciplinary approach at Apollo is bolstered by state-of-the-art facilities and ensures tailored treatments, innovative therapies, and precise diagnostics. Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, is the go-to option whenever seeking the most professional medical treatment and life-changing outcomes owing to its background record of compassionate care to patient health needs. Our efforts symbolise trust, dependability, and an unshakable commitment to enhancing healthcare.

– Dr. P Subramanya Rao