Head and neck cancer
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Cause
The following risk factors can increase the risk of head and neck cancer:
- Excessive use of tobacco and alcohol
- Infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Chronic exposure to harmful substances (such as asbestos)
- Prolonged exposure to sunlight (especially for skin cancer)
- Weakened immune system
Symptoms
As the tumour grows, the following symptoms may occur:
- Lump or swelling in the mouth, throat or neck
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- Prolonged nasal congestion or nosebleed (sinus cancer)
- Persistent pain in the ear
- Unexplained weight loss
How is head and neck cancer treated?
The treatment of head and neck cancer depends on the stage and location of the tumour and is tailored to your individual situation.
Examinations
To determine the right treatment, your doctor must know the stage of the disease.
The following examinations may be carried out:
- Physical examination of the mouth, throat and neck
- Endoscopy to view the throat and nose internally
- Biopsy of suspicious areas to examine potentially malignant cells
- Imaging (CT scan, NMR scan,...) to assess the extent of the cancer
- Ultrasound to examine the lymph nodes in the neck
Treatment
The stage of the cancer and the site of the tumour determine further treatment.
Tumours are removed as much as possible, while trying to preserve healthy structures.
Radiotherapy (radiation) may be used as primary treatment or after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells. For extensive tumours, chemotherapy may be combined with radiotherapy.
After treatment, rehabilitation may be required to recover swallowing, speech or breathing functions.