Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
10845848 | Seminars in Cancer Biology | 2005 | 8 Pages |
Abstract
Recent molecular pathology studies in head and neck cancer support a carcinogenesis model in which the development of a field with genetically altered cells plays a central role. This preneoplastic field is of monoclonal origin and expands non-invasively superseding normal epithelium. Clonal divergence and selection within the field ultimately leads to the development of cancer. These fields can be large (over 7Â cm diameter) and are often not visible for the surgeon explaining that they may remain after resection of the primary tumor. When not removed, a field is an important risk factor for secondary cancer.
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Authors
Boudewijn J.M. Braakhuis, C. René Leemans, Ruud H. Brakenhoff,