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Head and neck cancers are identified by the area in which they begin, such as the nasal cavity, sinuses, lip, mouth, salivary glands, throat, or larynx. Most head and neck cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, although some head and neck cancers begin in other types of cells.
Common symptoms may include hoarseness or other voice changes, a lump in the neck area, sore throat, the sensation of something being stuck in your throat, cough, breathing problems, bad breath, earache, and weight loss. Other, less serious health problems may cause these symptoms as well, so anyone experiencing these symptoms should consult a physician.
A doctor's examination of a sample of tissue under the microscope is essential in confirming a diagnosis of head and neck cancer. Other diagnostic tests include endoscopy, X-rays, MRI, CT scan, PET scan, and biopsy to determine stage and exact location of the tumor(s).
The main treatment methods for head and neck cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Surgery is often followed by radiation treatment.
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