Introduction to head and neck cancer

Welcome to the week on head and neck cancer.

Head and neck cancer is a broad term that encompasses epithelial malignancies that arise in the paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, oral cavity, pharynx and larynx. The diagnostics and management of this disease are covered by multiple specialties such as ear, nose, and throat specialist, oral and maxillofacial surgery, surgical oncology, oncology, pathology, radiology, and radiotherapy.

The goal of this week is to learn to recognize several malignancies of the head and neck area and how to properly differentiate between these. On the basis of a patient case we will guide you through the process of differentiating between benign and malignant tumours, how to perform physical examination, and which tests to order. We will not discuss the treatment options in depth, as the level of this course is intended for medical students who just started their clinical rotations.

At the end of the week you should be able to:

• Differentiate between benign and malignant tumours of the necks;
• Define common risk factors for head and neck cancer;
• Define how to perform a physical examination of the head and neck area;
• Define the diagnostic importance of fine needle-aspiration;