Cytology, Pathology, Frozen Section and Occult Primaries in Head and Neck Cancers

Abstract

Whilst squamous cell carcinomas take center stage in the head and neck area, almost any mass disease that can occur in the rest of the body can theoretically occur here too. This includes the spectrum of adenocarcinomas, lymphomas, melanomas and sarcomas, not forgetting the diversity of salivary gland and thyroid tumors. Diagnoses by FNAC, open biopsy or frozen section have their own inherent, site specific, individualistic problems, and some of the basic principles will be highlighted. Frozen sections for resection margins and staging will be dealt with. Finally the challenge of the occult primary with metastasis in the head and neck, and understanding the need for immunohistochemistry are also touched upon.