Pediatric head and neck malignancies.
OBJECTIVE
Although head and neck masses represent a common entity in children, malignancy is uncommon. The otolaryngologist may be the first physician to see these children, and early recognition of malignancy is of obvious importance. This review aims to discuss the cause, diagnosis, investigation, treatment options, and prognosis for the most common head and neck malignancies of childhood.


RESULTS
Over recent years, significant developments have been made in characterizing the epidemiologic, phenotypic, and genotypic variability of childhood head and neck cancers. Improved awareness of tumor biology is reflected by more sophisticated diagnostics, estimates of prognosis, and an increasing individualization of treatment regimens.


CONCLUSIONS
The latest evidence for the diagnosis and management of childhood head and neck malignancy is summarized. The rarity of these tumors inevitably results in a paucity of high-level evidence to guide treatment. A combination of translational research from tumor biology studies, multicenter clinical trials, and smaller case series and case reports will continue to guide new advances in diagnosis and treatment.
Chadha
Neil K
NK
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Forte
Vito
V
D002648:Child; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008223:Lymphoma / Q000628:therapy; D012208:Rhabdomyosarcoma / Q000628:therapy; D013964:Thyroid Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy