Head and neck cancer | Nuffield Health

What are the different types of head and neck cancers?

Oropharyngeal Cancer
Hypopharyngeal Cancer
Laryngeal Cancer
Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer
Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Paranasal Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer
Salivary Gland Cancer
Squamous Cell Neck Cancer
Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Thyroid Cancer

What causes head and neck cancer?

Alcohol and tobacco use (including smokeless tobacco, sometimes called “chewing tobacco” or “snuff”) are the two most important risk factors for head and neck cancers, especially cancers of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx. People who use both tobacco and alcohol are at greater risk of developing these cancers than those who use tobacco or alcohol alone. Tobacco and alcohol use are not risk factors for salivary gland cancers.

Infection with cancer-causing types of human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV type 16, is a risk factor for some types of head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancers that involve the tonsils or the base of the tongue.

Other risk factors for cancers of the head and neck include the following:

Paan (betel quid). Immigrants from Southeast Asia who use paan (betel quid) in the mouth should be aware that this habit has been strongly associated with an increased risk of oral cancer
Preserved or salted foods. Consumption of certain preserved or salted foods during childhood is a risk factor for nasopharyngeal cancer
Oral health. Poor oral hygiene and missing teeth may be weak risk factors for cancers of the oral cavity. Use of mouthwash that has a high alcohol content is a possible, but not proven, risk factor for cancers of the oral cavity

What are the symptoms of head and neck cancer?

The symptoms of head and neck cancers are similar to other conditions, so it is important to see your GP in the first instance. Symptoms may include:

Red or white patch in the mouth
Persistent mouth ulcers
Difficulties swallowing
Unexplained fatigue
Weight loss or low appetite
Jaw pain
Persistent sore throat and nose bleeds
A lump, a bump or swelling in the neck or the mouth even if it is not painful
Difficulties breathing

What are the investigations for head and neck cancer?

Accurate investigation and staging are essential for the appropriate management of patients with head or neck cancer. Diagnostics scans used in head and neck cancer are:

CT scan
Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
Blood tests
Biopsy
X-ray
Nasoendoscopy

Related tests and scans

CT scan (or CAT scan)

A CT scan is used to produce internal cross-sectional images of the body. The images aid the detection of disease and injury, allowing effective treatment planning.

Diagnostic endoscopy

A diagnostic endoscopy is an examination to look at your internal organs using an instrument called an endoscope.

Family history screening

Family history screening may be done for a number of reasons including a family history of cancers or heart disease.

Fine needle biopsy

A biopsy is a procedure to remove and examine a sample of tissue from a lump or suspicious area of the body.

Larynx diagnostic endoscopy (or laryngoscopy)

If you experience chronic (long term) laryngitis, difficulty swallowing or throat pain your consultant may recommend a larynx diagnostic endoscopy (laryngoscopy).

MRI scan

An MRI is a type of scan that creates detailed images of the inside of your body. Your doctor or healthcare professional has recommended an MRI scan because it is the best way to make an accurate diagnosis of your condition.

Oral (dental) imaging

Orthopantomogram (OPG)

Panoramic x-rays of the mouth and jaw.

X-ray

An X-ray machine produces images of the inside of the body. It is effective in assessing bones and other dense structures within the body.

Related treatments and procedures

Brain surgery

Brain surgery, also known as neurosurgery, is surgical treatment concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of disorders which affect any portion of the nervous system including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the use of chemicals or drugs (cytotoxic agents) to disrupt or stop the growth of cancer cells.

Endoscopic sinus surgery

The sinuses are air-filled spaces at the front of the skull that are connected to the inside of your nose. Sinusitis is an infection of the mucous membrane that lines the sinuses.

Facial surgery

Our experienced consultant surgeons perform a full range of facial surgery procedures including plastic and cosmetic surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery and facial trauma surgery.

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS)

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery widens the passage between the sinus and the nose so that mucus can not get trapped.

Head and neck oncology

Head and neck surgery

Maxillofacial / oral surgery

Palliative care

Palliative care is a medical and nursing speciality that focus on controlling symptoms and providing support for patients, and their families with any serious illness.

Pituitary surgery

Problems with the pituitary gland are rare but they may include benign (non-cancerous) growths or tumours.

Psychological support and therapy in oncology and palliative care

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy uses high-energy particles or waves, such as X-rays, gamma rays or protons, to destroy or damage cancer cells.

Thyroid surgery (thyroidectomy)

The thyroid is a small gland at the front of your neck. Its function is to control the metabolism of the body.