Squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, oropharynx and upper oesophagus

Squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity, oropharynx and oesophagus are relatively common cancers frequently associated with heavy alcohol and tobacco use. The dramatic increase in the incidence of oropharyngeal cancers over the past three decades is attributed to human papilloma virus infection. Early detection of cancers is associated with improved outcome; unfortunately, many cancers remain clinically silent until they are locally advanced, leading to poor overall survival figures. Surgery is often preferred in early stage disease in patients fit to undergo treatment. For advanced disease, combined use of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, with or without surgery, is often required. Treatment is associated with significant morbidity, which requires intensive support from a multi-disciplinary team.