Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Head and neck cancer
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
Head and neck cancer: The common carcinomas of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx as well as other tumors that affect the head and neck.
These include:
- Paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancer
- Lip and oral cavity cancer
- Nasopharyngeal cancer
- Oropharyngeal cancer
- Hypopharyngeal cancer
- Laryngeal cancer
- Salivary gland cancer
- Parathyroid cancer
- Thyroid cancer
There are also metastatic head and neck cancers in which the primary tumor where the cancer originated may or may not be known.