Lesions of the head and neck and upper respiratory tract can be quite difficult to diagnose at times when presenting symptoms and signs appear out of character or biopsy of affected tissue reveals nonspecific results. A heightened awareness of important historical facts such as place of birth and residence, travel and occupation may provide important clues to narrow the differential diagnosis. Not all destructive ulcers and tumors of the head and neck are malignant. Inflammatory and infectious diseases that mimic cancer are presented.

Inflammatory and infectious diseases can masquerade as head and neck malignancies, making diagnosis difficult and requiring careful consideration of historical factors and clinical presentation.

Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases Masquerading as Head and Neck Malignancy.

Key Takeaway: Inflammatory and infectious diseases can masquerade as head and neck malignancies, making diagnosis difficult and requiring careful consideration of historical factors and clinical presentation.