MedGen

A rare head and neck tumor characterized by a malignant epithelial neoplasm with evidence of squamous differentiation, most commonly located in the supraglottis or glottis. The tumor can spread directly to adjacent structures or metastasize via lymphatic and blood vessels to regional lymph nodes, or lung, liver, and bones, respectively. Primary risk factors are tobacco smoking and (to a lesser extent) alcohol consumption. Patients may present with hoarseness, dyspnea, stridor, dysphagia, hemoptysis, or odynophagia. [from ORDO]