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Characterization of the oropharynx: anatomy, histology, immunology, squamous cell carcinoma and surgical resection
Author(s) -
Fossum Croix C,
Chintakuntlawar Ashish V,
Price Daniel L,
Garcia Joaquin J
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
histopathology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.626
H-Index - 124
eISSN - 1365-2559
pISSN - 0309-0167
DOI - 10.1111/his.13140
Subject(s) - medicine , histology , pathology , soft palate , epithelium , basal cell , anatomy , surgery
Understanding the structure and function of the oropharynx is paramount for providing excellent patient care. In clinical oncology, the oropharynx is generally divided into four distinct components: (i) the base of the tongue; (ii) the soft palate; (iii) the palatine tonsillar fossa; and (iv) the pharyngeal wall. The oropharyngeal mucosa is distinct from other mucosal surfaces in the body, as it is composed of a reticulated epithelium with a discontinuous basement membrane, also known as lymphoepithelium. This review describes the anatomy, histology, immunology and surgical resection of the oropharynx as they relate to oncological care.