A broad category of tumors that arise in the head and neck area, including tumors in the mouth, tongue, lips, gums, sinuses, salivary glands, throat, and larynx (voice box). Symptoms can include swelling or sores in the mouth that do not heal; pain, swelling, or obstruction of the nose; chronic sinus trouble that is unresponsive to antibiotics; paralysis of one side of the face; ear pain; pain when swallowing; bloody nasal discharges; persistent hoarseness; difficulty breathing; and double vision.
Squamous cell carcinoma usually arising in the pharynx, oral cavity, or larynx. Research has shown links between human papillomavirus infection, tobacco smoking, and excessive alcohol use and head and neck cancers.