What is the pathophysiology of squamous cell carcinoma?
Most squamous cell carcinomas of the skin result from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, either from sunlight or from tanning beds or lamps. Avoiding UV light helps reduce your risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin and other forms of skin cancer.
What is the prognosis for metastatic squamous cell carcinoma?
The prognosis of patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell cancer is generally poor. The median survival in most series is 6 to 15 months depending on patient- and disease-related factors. Symptom-directed care plays an important role in the management of these patients.
Is metastatic squamous cell carcinoma curable?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) generally has a high survival rate. The 5-year survival is 99 percent when detected early. Once SCC has spread to the lymph nodes and beyond, the survival rates are lower. Yet this cancer is still treatable with surgery and other therapies, even in its advanced stages.
What happens if squamous cell carcinoma spreads to lymph nodes?
When squamous cell cancer spreads to lymph nodes in the neck or around the collarbone, it is called metastatic squamous neck cancer. The doctor will try to find the primary tumor (the cancer that first formed in the body), because treatment for metastatic cancer is the same as treatment for the primary tumor.
Can squamous cell carcinoma spread to the brain?
Squamous cell carcinomas are defined as relatively slow-growing malignant (cancerous) tumors that can spread (metastasize) to surrounding tissue if left untreated. Squamous cell carcinoma may spread to the sinuses or skull base, or other areas of the brain.
What is metastatic squamous cell carcinoma stage 4?
Stage 4 squamous cell carcinoma: In stage 4, the cancer can be any size and has spread (metastasized) to 1 or more lymph nodes which are larger than 3 cm and may have spread to bones or other organs in the body.
Where do head and neck cancers metastasize?
The most common sites of distant metastases were the lungs (70%), the liver (42%), and the bones (15%). There was a correlation between initial cervical lymph node involvement and development of distant metastases.
What are the stages of head and neck cancer?
In the sinuses (the spaces around the nose on the inside of the skull).
What are the symptoms of head and neck cancer?
Trouble breathing or speaking.
What is the treatment for head and neck cancer?
Laser technology. This may be used to treat an early-stage tumor,especially if it was found in the larynx.
What are the types of head and neck cancer?
Understanding Head and Neck Cancers. When head and neck cancers develop,they usually occur in the cells that line the moist,mucus-producing areas of the mouth,throat and nose.