ABSTRACT
Clinical evaluation of the patient with HNSCC offers multiple and complex challenges for the surgeon. A comprehensive and systematic examination of the patient is required. A complete and thorough medical history of the patient should be taken, with a special attention given to key factors such as prior history of cancer; any habits like tobacco chewing, smoking, and intake of alcohol; extent of exposure of sun; gastric reflux; industrial or occupational exposures at work; and intake of immunosuppression drugs. This helps the cancer surgeon to understand the disease well and makes an appropriate plan for improving the quality of life of the patient. This chapter highlights all the important aspects to be done during clinical examination of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients.
