Inflammation plays a critical role in the process of carcinogenesis as well as
in modulating treatment effects of many therapeutic agents for head and neck
malignancy. Current research indicates that a myriad of new diagnostic tools and
treatment modality works in harmony in producing a desired effective cancer treatment
regime. Imperatively, multiple inflammatory markers have surged in the genomic and
molecular ecospheres as highly potential agents that can be used in screening,
diagnosis, treatment as well as follow up of head and neck cancer patients. These
markers include arrays of cytokines, peptides, macrophages, acute phase proteins,
growth factors, and many more. The tumor microenvironment is a complex ecosystem
and has an intricate relationship with its surrounding biosphere. The multiple
interactions within the molecules in the cancer microenvironment play significant roles
in mediating and promoting carcinogenesis as well as mitigating the treatment
response. These complex ecosystems are also responsible for the occurrence of
metastatic diseases, recurrences, and residual diseases. This chapter highlights some of
the critical inflammatory markers that can be potentially used as a potent theranostic
approach for head and neck tumors in the near future.
Keywords: Carcinogenesis, Chemokines, Head and neck malignancy,
Immunomodulation, Inflammatory cascades, Inflammation ecosystem, Tumor
microenvironment.
