SC asked in an e-mail:

quote:

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What are the chances that advanced cancer of the layrnx could spread to other parts of the body, such as the stomach area and the intestines after standard treatment, six months from diagnosis.

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Head and neck cancers encompass a diverse group of uncommon tumors that frequently are aggressive in their biological behavior. The anatomy of the head and neck is complex and is divided into sites and subsites. Tumors of each site have a unique epidemiology, anatomy, natural history, and therapeutic approach.

Patients with a head and neck cancer often develop a second primary tumor. These tumors occur at an annual rate of 3%-7%, and 50%-75% of such new cancers occur in the upper aerodigestive tract or lungs. Despite aggressive primary treatment, the majority of relapses that occur following a head and neck cancer are within the head and neck. Locoregional relapse accounts for ~80% of primary treatment failures. Hence the need for frequent review appointments at your Head and Neck Clinic.

The chances of distant metastases increase as the disease progresses and most often involves the lungs, bones, and liver. By the time of death, 10%-30% of patients will have clinically detected distant metastases.

Over time, as the risk of relapse of the initial cancer declines, the development of a new cancer represents the greatest risk for these patients. The lifetime risk of a head and neck cancer patient developing a totally new cancer is 20%-40% .

See page 75 (37 of 48) of this chapter about Head and neck tumors This chapter reviews head and neck lesions as a group and then individually by anatomic site.

It is best to see the cup 60% -80% full and to enjoy the life one has, the best one can, remembering that all life is finite .

Best wishes

Vinod :coffee: