Squamous cell carcinoma of the hypopharynx

A rare head and neck tumor characterized by a malignant epithelial neoplasm with evidence of squamous differentiation, most commonly located in the piriform sinus, less frequently the posterior pharyngeal wall or the postcricoid area. 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 odynophagia, dysphagia, signs and symptoms related to a neck mass, voice changes, otalgia, and constitutional symptoms.