Superparamagnetic dextran coated iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIO) as potential markers for tumor cell detection

Abstract

Head and neck cancer includes the squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx and is one of the most common solid neoplasms worldwide. The malignancy is an important public health problem worldwide with more than 500000 new cases diagnosed each year. The change in survival over the last 20 years remains minimal and despite recent attention, the mortality rates are still high due to local tumor invasion and to a high predilection for the development of relapses and metastases. The cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for tumor aggressiveness and its response to chemo- and radiation therapies remain mostly unknown.