Pathophysiology

Etiology:
Epithelial cells undergo rapid, irreversible
alteration/mutation of DNA
Predisposing factors:
> Age (middle older aged
population; 71 yrs. old)
> Sex (Male)
> Genetic abberations

Precipitating factors:
> Smoking (Use of tobacco
containing products)
> Alcohol drinking
> Occupation (forklift
driver, exposure to
irritants such as fumes,
asbestos, etc.)
> Co-morbidities: HPV
(Human papilloma virus),
an STI; GERD, Epstein-Barr
virus exposure

**figures in red indicate
actual factors manifested
by patient
Cells undergo proliferation,
producing altered progeny
Initiated cells
(Atypical Squamous Cells)
Undergoes exposure to promoter
(progression)
Continuous progression,
malignant cell changes
Primary epidermal tumor
Invasion
Dysplastic squamous cell
S/SX

Changes in the quality of voice, dysphagia,
odonophagia, hoarseness, hemoptisis,
dyspnea
Invasive squamous cell
carcinoma
Loss of normal maturation