Non-epidermoid malignancies of the lips

Abstract

The most commonly encountered malignancy of the lips, especially the lower lip, is of epithelial origin, specifically squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer of the lip represents the second most common malignancy of the head and neck and accounts for approximately 25–30 % of the oral cavity tumors. Malignant tumors of mesenchymal origin as well as those originating from salivary gland tissue although overall rare can be found in the lips. While epithelial cancers are twice as common in men as in women, have clear association with sun exposure, and are found mainly in the lower lip, the incidence and etiology of other malignancies are less clear. In this chapter we will discuss the most common non-epithelial origin malignancies that can be found in the lips as well as their management.