Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma - Genetics Home Reference

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma - Genetics Home Reference

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

On this page:

 

• Description 
• Genetic changes 
• Inheritance 
• Diagnosis 
• Additional information
• Other names 
• Glossary definitions

What is head and neck squamous cell carcinoma? Squamous cell carcinoma is a cancer that arises from particular cells called squamous cells. Squamous cells are found in the outer layer of skin and in the mucous membranes, which are the moist tissues that line body cavities such as the airways and intestines. Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) develops in the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and throat. HNSCC is classified by its location: it can occur in the mouth (oral cavity), the middle part of the throat near the mouth (oropharynx), the space behind the nose (nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses), the upper part of the throat near the nasal cavity (nasopharynx), the voicebox (larynx), or the lower part of the throat near the larynx (hypopharynx). Depending on the location, the cancer can cause abnormal patches or open sores (ulcers) in the mouth and throat, unusual bleeding or pain in the mouth, sinus congestion that does not clear, sore throat, earache, pain when swallowing or difficulty swallowing, a hoarse voice, difficulty breathing, or enlarged lymph nodes. HNSCC can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes or lungs. If it spreads, the cancer has a worse prognosis and can be fatal. About half of affected individuals survive more than five years after diagnosis. How common is head and neck squamous cell carcinoma? HNSCC is the seventh most common cancer worldwide. Approximately 600,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, including about 50,000 in the United States. HNSCC occurs most often in men in their 50s or 60s, although the incidence among younger individuals is increasing. What genes are related to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma? HNSCC is caused by a variety of factors that can alter the DNA in cells. The strongest risk factors for developing this form of cancer are tobacco use (including smoking or using chewing tobacco) and heavy alcohol consumption. In addition, studies have shown that infection with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to the development of HNSCC. HPV infection accounts for the increasing incidence of HNSCC in younger people. Researchers have identified mutations in many genes in people with HNSCC; however, it is not yet clear what role most of these mutations play in the development or progression of cancer. The proteins produced from several of the genes associated with HNSCC, including TP53, NOTCH1, andCDKN2A, function as tumor suppressors, which means they normally keep cells from growing and dividing too rapidly or in an uncontrolled way. When tumor suppressors are impaired, cells can grow and divide without control, leading to tumor formation. It is likely that a series of changes in multiple genes is involved in the development and progression of HNSCC. Read more about the CDKN2A, NOTCH1, and TP53 genes. See a list of genes associated with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. How do people inherit head and neck squamous cell carcinoma? HNSCC is generally not inherited; it typically arises from mutations in the body's cells that occur during an individual's lifetime. This type of alteration is called a somatic mutation. Rarely, HNSCC is found in several members of a family. These families have inherited disorders that increase the risk of multiple types of cancer. Where can I find information about diagnosis or management of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma? These resources address the diagnosis or management of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and may include treatment providers. Cancer.Net: Head and Neck Cancer: Treatment Options National Cancer Institute: Head and Neck Cancers You might also find information on the diagnosis or management of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in Educational resources and Patient support. General information about the diagnosis and management of genetic conditions is available in the Handbook. To locate a healthcare provider, see How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook. Where can I find additional information about head and neck squamous cell carcinoma? You may find the following resources about head and neck squamous cell carcinoma helpful. These materials are written for the general public. MedlinePlus - Health information Additional NIH Resources - National Institutes of Health National Cancer Institute: Head and Neck Cancers Educational resources - Information pages (8 links) Patient support - For patients and families (3 links) You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for healthcare professionals and researchers. Genetic Testing Registry - Repository of genetic test information (1 link) ClinicalTrials.gov - Linking patients to medical research PubMed - Recent literature OMIM - Genetic disorder catalog What other names do people use for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma? HNSCC SCCHN squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck For more information about naming genetic conditions, see the Genetics Home Reference Condition Naming Guidelines and How are genetic conditions and genes named? in the Handbook. What if I still have specific questions about head and neck squamous cell carcinoma? Ask the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. Where can I find general information about genetic conditions? The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language. What does it mean if a disorder seems to run in my family? What are the different ways in which a genetic condition can be inherited? If a genetic disorder runs in my family, what are the chances that my children will have the condition? Why are some genetic conditions more common in particular ethnic groups? These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful. Genetics and Health Resources for Patients and Families Resources for Health Professionals What glossary definitions help with understanding head and neck squamous cell carcinoma? cancer ; carcinoma ; cell ; diagnosis ; difficulty swallowing ; DNA ; incidence ; infection ; inherited ;lymph ; metastasize ; mucous ; mutation ; paranasal sinuses ; prognosis ; progression ; risk factors ;sinus ; somatic mutation ; tumor You may find definitions for these and many other terms in the Genetics Home Reference Glossary. See also Understanding Medical Terminology. References (5 links) The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified healthcare professional. See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook.