The biology of tumor invasion, angiogenesis and lymph node metastasis

It is now well established that the development of cervical metastases, in particular those with extranodal extension of tumor, negatively impacts bot h regional control and survival of patients with laryngeal carcinoma. This chapter will begin with an introduction of the important molecular events a ssociated with the transition of the squamous epithelium of the upper aerod igestive tract to metastatic squamous cell carcinoma, We will then review t he critical cellular events identified as the tumor progresses from an in s itu to invasive and finally a metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcin oma. Finally we will review data from our own and other laboratories which are studying the process of new blood vessel growth (angiogenesis) induced by tumor-derived growth factors. As we develop a better understanding of th e cellular and molecular mechanisms of metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, new therapies effective at preventing the development of s econdary tumors can be realized ultimately increasing the patient's surviva l. Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.