How is Head and Neck Cancer Diagnosed?
DiagnosisHead and neck cancers can first appear as visible symptoms, such as precancerous sores in the mouth. This makes diagnosing in the earlier stages possible and increases the odds of successful treatment.
To determine a head and neck cancer diagnosis, your doctor (or dentist) may perform an exam and order certain imaging and medical tests:
- Physical examination and medical history - Your doctor will examine you and ask you about your symptoms and possible risk factors for cancer
- Endoscopy - An endoscope is a flexible tube with a light and camera at its tip. The doctor uses the scope to check for abnormalities
- Tissue biopsy - A small sample of tumor tissue will be removed to see if it contains cancer cells. The sample may also be examined for HPV, since HPV status can predict treatment response and help doctors know which therapies are best for you.
- Imaging tests - Exams such as CT, MRI, and PET scanning can help your care team see your tumor’s size and location and determine if it has spread
How is Head & Neck Cancer Treated?
TreatmentEarly detection of head and neck cancer plays a key role in curability. The sooner it’s found, the better chance for a positive treatment outcome.
Your course of treatment for head and neck cancer will depend on the stage, size, and location of the condition, plus your age, health, and personal comfort levels.
Head and neck treatment options can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Surgery for head and neck cancer
Head and neck surgery may be recommended by your doctor. The goal is to have a procedure that is as minimally invasive as possible, for a quicker and easier recovery.
The location of the cancer will influence the type of surgery you may have, including:
- Tumor removal through the mouth and nose - Some cancers, including sinus and throat tumors, can be extracted endoscopically or by robotic surgery. These are minimally invasive procedures when performed through the oral and nasal cavities.
- Neck surgery – To remove lymph nodes, either to stop cancer spread or for diagnostic purposes
- Reconstructive surgery - To preserve function and appearance, surgeons can rebuild the jawbone, and parts of the lip, tongue, or palate removed during treatment surgeries
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy kills cancer cells with high doses of radiation, while sparing nearby healthy tissue. It can be administered by an exterior machine, or by small catheters threaded to the site of your tumor to deliver a high, pinpointed dose of radiation.
Chemotherapy
Typically used for more advanced head and neck cancers, chemotherapy utilizes powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered in pill form or through an IV drip, and is often combined with radiation therapy.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy encourages your body’s own immune system to fight head and neck cancer.
Clinical trials
NewYork-Presbyterian participates in clinical trials that offer new treatment approaches for head and neck cancers. Your doctor can determine if you are a good candidate to participate in an innovative therapy being studied.
Recovery
The road to recovery from head and neck cancer treatments can be a long one. NewYork-Presbyterian offers a range of supportive services for head and neck cancer patients, including rehabilitation therapists, nutritionists, speech and swallowing therapists, palliative care experts, and social workers to help ease your recovery journey.
Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Head & Neck Cancer Treatment
NewYork-Presbyterian doctors, oncologists, surgeons, and medical technicians are familiar with all types of cancer, including head and neck, brain, lung, breast, prostate, colon, and blood cancer.
Our goal is to recognize the symptoms of head and neck cancer, deliver an expert diagnosis, and create a customized treatment plan that destroys your cancer while supporting your health and quality of life.
If you’ve received a head and neck cancer diagnosis, reach out to NewYork-Presbyterian today for compassionate care.