label: Tonsillar Squamous Cell Carcinoma
label_lc: tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma
description: A squamous cell carcinoma that arises from the mucosal lining of the tonsil and tends to metastasize early to the lymph nodes.  It predominantly affects middle aged and elderly patients who have a history of alcohol and tobacco use.  Patients may present with tonsillar swelling, sore throat, pain radiating to the ipsilateral ear, or a neck mass.