Current management of carcinoma of the oropharynx

A substantial proportion of head and neck cancers develop in the oropharynx. The anatomy of this area is quite complex as many vital structures are located nearby. Most oropharynx malignancies are squamous cell carcinomas, although other histologic types occur on occasion. The prognosis is dependent on the histologic type, the site(s) involved, and the stage of the tumor. Early disease may be managed equally well by either radiation therapy or surgery; advanced tumors generally require combination therapy. Major advances have occurred in reconstruction following resection. If diagnosed early enough, the prognosis for these cancers is quite good.