2ND PRIMARY MALIGNANCIES IN THE HEAD AND NECK-CANCER PATIENT

With improvements in locoregional control, the problem of second prima ry malignancies is rapidly being pushed to the forefront of head and n eck oncology. While the constant long-term risk for the head and neck cancer patient has been well established, efforts at prevention, early detection, and treatment have been somewhat futile. Recent advances i n genetic predisposition, biomarkers, photodiagnostic imaging, and dif ferentiation therapy may soon offer improved outcomes. The literature is reviewed and current research is presented regarding the history, e pidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of second primary mali gnancies.