Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 20, 2026

Proton Therapy Delivery and Its Clinical Application in Select Solid Tumor Malignancies
Published on: February 6, 2019
Pediatric head and neck malignancies
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Purpose Of Review:
Although head and neck masses represent a common entity in children, malignancy is uncommon. The otolaryngologist may be the first physician to see these children, and early recognition of malignancy is of obvious importance. This review aims to discuss the cause, diagnosis, investigation, treatment options, and prognosis for the most common head and neck malignancies of childhood.
Recent Findings:
Over recent years, significant developments have been made in characterizing the epidemiologic, phenotypic, and genotypic variability of childhood head and neck cancers. Improved awareness of tumor biology is reflected by more sophisticated diagnostics, estimates of prognosis, and an increasing individualization of treatment regimens.
Summary:
The latest evidence for the diagnosis and management of childhood head and neck malignancy is summarized. The rarity of these tumors inevitably results in a paucity of high-level evidence to guide treatment. A combination of translational research from tumor biology studies, multicenter clinical trials, and smaller case series and case reports will continue to guide new advances in diagnosis and treatment.
Related Concept Videos
The Retinoblastoma Gene
The first-ever tumor suppressor gene called Rb was identified in retinoblastoma - a rare eye tumor in children. In inherited forms of the disease, a child inherits one defective copy of the Rb gene, which predisposes them to retinoblastoma. However,...
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Metabolism
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Distribution
Arteries of the Head and Neck
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption