Understanding the Pathobiology of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the leading cancers in the world, although wide geographical variations do exist. HNSCC can be subcategorized into conventional HNSCC and HPV-associated HNSCC, exhibiting distinct clinical and histopathologic features. Awareness of the risks of smoking has fortunately contributed to the decreasing incidence of conventional HNSCC in the USA. However, the prevalence of HPV-associated HNSCC in the USA has been significantly increasing. Much progress has been made in the research of development and progression of HNSCC. In this article, we review the current concepts of the pathobiological mechanisms of HNSCC.