Are There Challenges in the Interpretation of Head and Neck Specimens?

The spectrum of possible diagnoses posed by the mingling of diverse tissue types present in the region of the head and neck can be challenging for all involved in the daily practice of surgical pathology. The purpose of this issue is not to cover every aspect of head and neck pathology but rather to have well recognized experts provide a foundation for diagnosis of critical entities in this region. Articles in this issue focus on aspects of interpretation that can be especially vexing in the head and neck, including salivary gland lesions, craniofacial bone lesions, odontogenic lesions, lichenoid lesions of oral mucosa, sinonasal tract, oral cavity and oropharynx, and larynx and hypopharynx. The articles are designed to offer a practical reference for the everyday interpretation of biopsies and excision specimens. Additionally, this issue includes state of the art review, key reference articles, and suggestions of ancillary testing. In each article there are high quality photomicrographs to complement the text. The diagnostic boxes and appropriate caveats may be used to further clarify relevant points in difficult areas where the