Head and neck cancer (HNC) most commonly arises from which type of cells?

Head and neck cancer (HNC) primarily arises from squamous cells, which are flat cells that line various surfaces in the body including the skin, mouth, throat, and esophagus. These cells are part of the epithelial tissue, which is crucial for protecting underlying structures and forming barriers against environmental factors. When squamous cells become abnormal or undergo malignant transformation, they can lead to the development of cancer in the head and neck region, such as squamous cell carcinoma, which is the most common type associated with HNC.

The other types of cells mentioned—muscle cells, nerve cells, and connective tissue cells—are not the typical origin points for head and neck cancer. Muscle cells are involved in movement, nerve cells in transmitting signals, and connective tissue cells in providing structural support and protection. While cancers can arise from these cell types in different parts of the body, they are not the primary cell type linked to head and neck cancer. This distinction underscores the significance of squamous cell carcinomas in the pathology of head and neck malignancies.