What are Head and
Neck Cancers?
Head and neck cancers, often referred to as squamous
cell carcinomas, are cancers that develop in the squamous
cells that line the structures found in the head and
neck. These types of cancers are often identified by
the location in which they first develop, including
the mouth, salivary glands, nose and nasal cavity, throat,
lymph nodes or pharynx.
According to the National Cancer Institute:
- Head and neck cancers account for 3 percent of
all cancers in the United States
- These cancers are more common in men and in people
over age 50
Risk Factors
A risk factor is anything that may increase your chance
of developing a disease. Different diseases, including
cancer, have different risk factors. Although these
factors may put you at greater risk, they do not necessarily
cause the disease. Primary risk factors include:
- Tobacco use - including smoking and smokeless (chewing)
tobacco
- Alcohol Consumption
- Exposure to the sun
- Exposure to radiation
- Occupational exposure to wood or nickel dust
- Poor oral hygiene
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Common Symptoms
Common symptoms of head and neck cancers vary based
on the location of the cancer, but can include any of
the following:
- A lump or sore that does not heal
- Difficulty swallowing
- A change or hoarseness in the voice
- Swelling under the chin or around the jawbone
- Pain in the ear or face or when swallowing
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Screening and Diagnosis
A combination of the following methods may be used
to diagnose a head or neck cancer:
- Physical examination
- Endoscopy - A procedure where the doctor uses a
flexible, lighted tube called an endoscope to inspect
areas inside the body
- Laboratory tests
- X-rays
- Computed tomography (CT scan) - CT scans use a
computer to combine a series of x-rays and produce
a three-dimensional image of internal organs and structures
within the body
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - MRI uses radio
waves and magnetic fields to obtain superbly detailed
anatomical images of the body
- Biopsy - A biopsy is where the doctor will remove
tissue from the tumor to make a definitive diagnosis
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Common Treatment Options
Treatment for head and neck cancers is based on the
type, stage, and size of the tumor, as well as your
personal preferences, prognosis, and ability to tolerate
certain medical procedures or medications. The goal
of treatment is to preserve healthy tissue while destroying
tumors at their point of origin as well as any cancer
cells that have spread throughout the body.
Surgery
Surgery may be used to remove the cancerous tissue while
sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. If the cancer
has spread, the surgeon may also remove some of the
lymph nodes in the neck. Patients should discuss their
personal situation with the surgeon prior to undergoing
surgery so they understand what will need to be removed
and what side effects may result.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a non-surgical method of treatment
of cancer and other diseases using penetrating beams
of high-energy waves called x-rays or gamma rays. Radiation
injures or destroys tumor cells by damaging their genetic
material, making it impossible for these cells to continue
to grow. There are two types of radiation therapy:
- External-beam radiation therapy - Specialized medical
equipment is used to deliver radiation to the tumor
site from outside the body.
- Internal radiation therapy - Radioactive material
is placed in the body near the cancer cells (also
called implant radiation or brachytherapy)
The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the
type and stage of the cancer being treated.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs
to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing
the cells or by stopping the cells from dividing. Depending
on the type and stage of the cancer, chemotherapy may
be given as the primary treatment or as an adjuvant
(additional) treatment to surgery. Chemotherapy drugs
can be taken orally or by injection depending on the
type and stage of the cancer and the drug protocol your
doctor has prescribed. It is important to discuss your
treatment protocol with your treatment team so you are
aware of any possible side effects.
