Neoplasms of the Head and Neck

Abstract

Overview Head and neck cancers (HNCs) comprise a diverse group of malignancies affecting the upper aerodigestive tract. The most common tumor type is squamous cell carcinoma. While the main risk factors for HNC remain tobacco and alcohol abuse, oncogenic viruses such as human papilloma virus and Epstein–Barr virus play a major carcinogenic role in tumors of the oropharynx and nasopharynx, respectively. The management of head and neck malignancies is site and histology specific, and requires a multidisciplinary team approach. In this chapter, we review the current knowledge of HNC, with focus on squamous and salivary cancers, and discuss ongoing and future research aiming to improve the management and outcomes of patients with these malignancies.