Cáncer de cabeza y cuello

Abstract

Head and neck tumors encompass neoplasms of the upper aerodigestive tract, including the salivary glands. They are rare tumors with a very heterogeneous population and geographic distribution. Its location in an anatomically complex area conditions the different therapeutic strategies aimed at minimizing comorbidities and optimizing patients’ organ functionality and quality of life. Multiple environmental (toxic, dietary, viral infections, etc.) and genetic risk factors related to the disease have been described; some are prognostic factors of the disease. A systematic study of the neck should be performed through a physical examination, fibroendoscopy, imaging test, and biopsy. A molecular study on the sample should be ordered in order to determine possible therapeutic targets. Likewise, a multidisciplinary approach must also be proposed in order to individualize and establish the best treatment option in each case: surgery, radiotherapy, or systemic treatment (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy).