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Abstract
Most head and neck cancers are squamous cell carcinomas that develop in the upper
aerodigestive epithelium after exposure to carcinogens such as tobacco and alcohol.
Human papillomavirus has also been strongly implicated as a causative agent in a subset
of these cancers. The complex anatomy and vital physiological role of the tumour-involved
structures dictate that the goals of treatment are not only to improve survival outcomes
but also to preserve organ function. Major improvements have been accomplished in
surgical techniques and radiotherapy delivery. Moreover, systemic therapy including
chemotherapy and molecularly targeted agents--namely, the epidermal growth factor
receptor inhibitors--has been successfully integrated into potentially curative treatment
of locally advanced squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck. In deciding which
treatment strategy would be suitable for an individual patient, important considerations
include expected functional outcomes, ability to tolerate treatment, and comorbid
illnesses. The collaboration of many specialties is the key for optimum assessment
and decision making. We review the epidemiology, molecular pathogenesis, diagnosis
and staging, and the latest multimodal management of squamous cell carcinoma of the
head and neck.