Head and Neck Cancer: Clinical Research and Challenges

Head and neck cancer is a group of cancers that consists of oral cancer, nasopharynx cancer, tumors of the hypopharynx, laryngeal cancer, throat cancer, etc. It is classified on the basis of its histology or cell structure, and by the location in the oral cavity and neck. The stage at which the cancer is diagnosed plays a determining influence in its prognosis. Metastasis of the cancer can affect many cells and organs of the body, such as the bone marrow, the circulatory system and nervous system. Nearly 50% of all cases of head and neck cancer have advanced stage of the disease, which typically has a poor prognosis. The size of the tumor influences the probability of cure. In a significant percentage of people who have been cured of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, there has been development of second primary tumors, which are a major threat to survival. Tremendous research is occurring to increase the survival rates and achieve adequate management of symptoms and complications pertaining to head and neck cancer. One such dimension explores immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors. This book contains some path-breaking studies in head and neck cancer. It covers in detail the current researches and challenges of head and neck cancer. It is a complete source of knowledge on the present status of this important type of cancer.