oropharynx
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GC: n

S: CDC – http://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpvandoralcancer.htm (last access: 11 November 2014); DORLAND p. 1337.

N: 1. From oro + pharynx. Oro- word-forming element meaning “mountain,” from greek oros “mountain”. Pharynx- from greek pharynx (genitive pharyngos) “windpipe, throat,” related to pharanx “cleft, chasm”.”
2. The portion of the pharynx that lies posterior to the mouth; it is continuous above with the nasopharynx via the pharyngeal istmus, and below with the laryngopharynx.
3. Oral cancer, disease characterized by the growth of cancerous cells in the mouth, including the lips. Oral cancer is often associated with cancers of the cavity located behind the tonsils and the back of the throat (oropharyngeal cancer). Most cases originate from the flattened cells that make up the lining of the oral cavity (squamous cell carcinomas). Oral cancers can spread into the jaw and may occur simultaneously with cancers of the larynx, esophagus, or lungs.

S: 1. OED – http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=oro-&allowed_in_frame=0 (last access: 13 November 2014); http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=pharynx&allowed_in_frame=0 (last access: 13 November 2014). 2. TERMIUMPLUS. 3.EncBrit.

SYN: oral part of pharynnoc, oropharyngeal cavity, oral pharynx, pharyngo-oral cavity.

S: TERMIUMPLUS

CR: cancer