Book excerpt: Although many tumors of the upper respiratory tract are squamous cell carcinomas, the varied tissues of this region can give rise to a bewildering array of neoplasms. This text reviews the interpretation of biopsies of neoplasms and neoplasm-like entities arising in the head and neck region, including the ear. It discusses both neoplastic and non-neoplastic pathology to help make the correct diagnosis and guide patient management.