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Definition of Head and neck cancer

Head and neck cancer: The common carcinomas of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx as well as other tumors that affect the head and neck.

These include:

  • Paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancer
  • Lip and oral cavity cancer
  • Nasopharyngeal cancer
  • Oropharyngeal cancer
  • Hypopharyngeal cancer
  • Laryngeal cancer
  • Salivary gland cancer
  • Parathyroid cancer
  • Thyroid cancer

There are also metastatic head and neck cancers in which the primary tumor where the cancer originated may or may not be known.

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=19411
Last Editorial Review: 1/10/2002 8:55:00 AM

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