What Is Metastatic Squamous Neck Cancer?

Metastatic squamous neck cancer may refer to cancers that begin in the neck and then begin to spread to other areas of the body, or it may refer to cancer that began in squamous cells at an unknown location of the body and which spread into the lymph nodes of the neck. In both instances, this would be considered a higher grade cancer and may be more difficult to treat. Squamous cell cancers may spread, or metastasize, to nearly any area of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

Most primary squamous cell neck cancer begins as a result of certain habits or behaviors. Roughly 85% of such cancers are caused by tobacco use, and some others are due to frequent alcohol use. It is relatively rare for those who do not smoke or drink to be diagnosed with squamous neck cancer which originated in the neck.

Metastatic squamous neck cancer can refer to squamous cells from other areas of the body migrating to the lymph nodes found in the neck. Squamous cells are found on mucus membranes located in the mouth, nasal passages, throat, uterus, lungs, and certain other organ systems. Cancer which begins in any of these regions may migrate to the neck if not treated in time, and even sometimes if it is treated.

The treatment for metastatic squamous neck cancer will depend on the complexity of the disease. Widespread cancers are almost always treated with a combination of methods. Tumors may be removed through surgery and radiation treatment or chemotherapy may be used following the surgical removal of tumors. Radiation may also be used alongside chemotherapy in very aggressive or progressed cancers.

Survival rates for metastatic squamous neck cancer vary from patient to patient. The success of treatment may depend on how far the cancer has spread, how aggressive it is, and how quickly a patient seeks treatment. Second bouts with cancer following a remission may have worse outcomes since cancer cells may become resistant to treatments.

Symptoms of metastatic squamous neck cancer may include sore throat, trouble swallowing, hoarse voice, and sometimes a mass in the neck if the cancer is in the lymph nodes. Surgical treatments may leave patients physically altered or disfigured. Part of the neck, jaw, or mouth may be removed to get rid of the cancer in those areas, and prosthetics and computer voice technology may allow patients to regain a more normal appearance and communication.