An interesting case of enlarged head size in a patient with squamous cell carcinoma of tongue

Abstract

Head and Neck Lymphedema (HNL) is one of the complications of Head and Neck Carcinoma (HNC). It can be a consequence of the disease progression or can occur as a complication of HNC management. HNL patients not only have facial disfigurement but also have psychological effects and poor quality of life. Severe lymph edema can cause impairment in speaking, chewing, and hearing. The gold standard treatment for HNL is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). We present a case of a 59-year-old male with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue who came with complaints of painless and gradual swelling of the face, lips, eyelids, and neck leading to doubling of the head size. He had severe lymphedema of the head and neck which was refractory to treatment.

Keywords

• head and neck neoplasm
• lymphedema
• carcinoma
• squamous cell
• tongue neoplasm