levyepiteelikarsinoomia

Levyepiteelikarsinoomia is a malignant tumor arising from stratified squamous epithelium. It is commonly categorized as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and can develop in any tissue lined by this epithelium, including the skin, oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, cervix, anus, and parts of the respiratory and urinary tracts. Histologically, levyepiteelikarsinoomia shows nests or sheets of malignant squamous cells with features such as keratinization and intercellular bridges; keratin pearls may be present. Immunohistochemistry often reveals markers like p63 and various cytokeratins.

Risk factors for levyepiteelikarsinoomia include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection (notably for cervical and oropharyngeal sites), ultraviolet radiation (skin cancers), chronic inflammation, and immunosuppression. The disease typically progresses from dysplasia to in situ changes and finally to invasive carcinoma, with potential lymphatic and distant spread.

Clinically, presentation is site-dependent. Patients may notice persistent non-healing ulcers or masses, pain, bleeding, dysphagia, hoarseness, or abnormal vaginal bleeding, among other symptoms. Diagnosis relies on tissue biopsy for histopathologic confirmation, supplemented by imaging (CT, MRI, or PET-CT) for staging. Staging uses the TNM system adapted to the primary site.

Treatment is guided by stage and location, commonly involving surgical excision for localized disease and radiotherapy or chemotherapy for advanced cases. Targeted therapies (such as cetuximab) and immunotherapies are used in selected head and neck, skin, or metastatic SCCs. Prognosis varies widely by site and stage; HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers, for example, tend to have better outcomes. Prevention emphasizes reducing risk factors, including HPV vaccination where appropriate and avoidance of tobacco and excessive alcohol use.