SummaryHead and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) involves the upper aerodigestive tract and can destroy the structure and function of organs involved in voice, speech, taste, smell and hearing, as well as vital structures necessary for survival. HNSCC has long been a treatment challenge because of the high rate of recurrences and of advanced disease at the time of diagnosis. Molecular identification of tissue biomarkers in diagnostic biopsy specimens may not only identify patients at risk for developing HNSCC but may also select patients that may benefit from more aggressive treatment modalities. Several biomarkers studied to date such as the proteins p53, cyclin D1, p16, Cox-2 enzyme, epidermal growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors, matrix metalloproteinases and the Fhit marker for genomic instability could be manipulated for the therapeutic benefit of these patients. This review presents the most updated information on molecular biomarkers with the greatest prognostic potential in HNSCC and discusses some factors that contribute to the controversy concerning their prognostic importance.
Mucoepid ermoid carcinoma of the nasal cavity is rare. We report the case of a 57-year-old man who was evaluated fo r a rapidly enlarging subcutaneous mass on the nasal bridge. The tumor was diagnosed as a mucoepidermoid carcinoma. The patient underwent extensive surgical resection and postoperative radiotherapy, but 5 months later he required orbital exenteration fo r persistellt disease. Despite these radical measures, the patient died with persistent disease 9 months following the initial evaluation. The aggressive behavio r of this tumor highlights the need fo r physicians to be aware ofthe diffe rential diagnosis, symptoms, and signs of neoplasm s that originate in the nasal cavity so that prompt treatment can be instituted.
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