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Obstructive sleep apnea and head and neck neoplasms
1Department of Information Systems, 1000 Hilltop Circle, University of Maryland-Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA. rada@umbc.edu
Summary
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to head and neck neoplasms (HNN), with many HNN cases initially presenting as OSA. Further research is needed to understand this complex relationship.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Sleep Medicine
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder.
- Head and neck neoplasms (HNN) represent a significant group of cancers.
- The potential connection between OSA and HNN requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and head and neck neoplasms (HNN).
- To identify research gaps concerning the clinical and biological links between OSA and HNN.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of the MEDLINE literature was conducted.
- Studies indexed under OSA and HNN were analyzed.
Main Results:
- 30 of 34 reviewed articles focused on neoplasms presenting initially as OSA.
- Four articles discussed HNN treatment leading to OSA, with incidences ranging from 8% to 92%.
- Quality of life surveys indicate sleep problems in patients with malignant HNN; xerostomia and salivary mucins may play a role.
Conclusions:
- The literature review highlights novel research questions regarding the clinical and biological interplay between OSA and HNN.
- Further studies are warranted to elucidate the multifaceted relationship between these conditions.