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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
08:59
A Model for Perineural Invasion in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: January 5, 2017
Head and neck cancers manifested as deep neck infection
Yuan-Yung Lin1, Chiang-Hung Hsu, Jih-Chin Lee
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, 325, Sec. 2, Cheng-Kung Rd., Taipei 114, Taiwan, ROC.
Summary
Deep neck infection may indicate underlying head and neck cancer, particularly in patients over 40. Early detection through thorough examination is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Oncology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Deep neck infection (DNI) incidence as an initial presentation of head and neck cancers (HNC) is often underestimated.
- Early diagnosis of HNC is critical for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of HNC presenting initially as DNI.
- To identify potential risk factors and discuss pathophysiology.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective medical chart review of 81 consecutive patients with DNI.
- Analysis of demographic data, physical examinations, laboratory findings, radiographic studies, and pathology reports.
Main Results:
- Four out of 81 patients (4.9%) with DNI were diagnosed with HNC, presenting with a painful neck mass.
- The incidence of HNC as an initial DNI presentation was higher in patients over 40 years old (6.7%) compared to younger patients (2.8%).
Conclusions:
- Patients with DNI, especially those over 40, require thorough medical history, physical, and pathological examinations.
- Consider HNC in the differential diagnosis of DNI, with an estimated incidence of 1-5%.
- Persistent neck swelling after antibiotic treatment warrants further investigation, including imaging and endoscopy.
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