Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancers
Initial symptoms of head and neck cancers are typically:
- Asymptomatic neck mass
- Hoarseness or voice disturbances
- Difficulty or pain swallowing
- Throat pain
- Ear pain
Diagnosing Head and Neck Cancers
Screening for head and neck cancers can start with a self-examination or an exam by your primary care provider. It can include identifying lumps or bumps in the neck or cheek, mouth sores, throat pain, persistent hoarseness and increased difficulty swallowing.
Symptoms of concern might warrant a referral to our head and neck cancer specialists for evaluation. A physical exam might reveal certain abnormalities in the head and neck area. We also use special mirrors and lighting to examine the inside of your mouth and throat.
Treating Head and Neck Cancers
At the Cancer Institute, we offer the most advanced treatment for head and neck tumors. Possible treatments can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or a combination.
As our patient, you’re cared for by a team of experts that can include surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, endocrinologists, dermatologists, dentists and oral surgeons, head and neck radiologists, head and neck pathologists, oncology nurses and advanced practice providers, dietitians and speech language pathologists.
Surgical treatments include:
- Microvascular reconstructive surgery of the face, head, neck, mouth and throat
- Transoral, robotic-assisted surgery
- Endoscopic surgery
- Conservation surgery
- Laser surgery
- Wide local excision
Other treatments include:
- Hormonal suppression therapy
- Radioactive iodine therapy
- Intensity modulated and conformal radiation therapy
- Stereotactic radiosurgery
- Brachytherapy
- Chemotherapy/biotherapy
Various support services addressing any functional problems like difficulty swallowing, breathing or speaking that can result from treatment for your cancer.