Types of Head and Neck Cancer
Laryngeal and Hypopharyngeal Cancer
The larynx (commonly called the voice box) is a tube-shaped organ in the neck that is important for breathing, talking, and swallowing. It is located at the top of the windpipe, or trachea. The hypopharynx (also called the gullet) is the lower part of the throat that surrounds the larynx.
Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinus Cancer
The nasal cavity is the space just behind the nose where air passes on the way to the throat. The paranasal sinuses are the air-filled areas that surround the nasal cavity.
Nasopharyngeal Cancer
The nasopharynx is the air passageway at the upper part of the throat behind the nose.
Types of Head and Neck Cancer
Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer
The oral cavity includes the mouth and tongue. The oropharynx includes the middle of the throat from the tonsils to the tip of the voice box.
Salivary Gland Cancer
The salivary gland is tissue that produces saliva, which is the fluid that is released into the mouth to keep it moist and that contains enzymes that begin breaking down food.
Other types of cancer can also be located in this area of the body, but the diagnosis and treatment are much different so they are addressed separately on this website.
Types of Head and Neck Cancer