Others may experience a lump in the neck. These symptoms may be indicative of cancer, but should not be taken as the sole cause of an enlarged tonsil. In such cases, it is important to see a specialist. These doctors are called otolaryngologists. In most cases, tonsil cancer can be prevented with a vaccine.
Researchers believe that HPV may be a factor in the rise of tonsil cancer. Although most cancers in the head and neck region are caused by viruses and bacteria, a recent study found that the HPV virus (HPV) infection increases the risk of tonsil cancer. HPV is associated with a higher risk of developing tonsil cancer if it is infected early in life. The disease is more likely to respond to early treatment if it is detected early.
The symptoms of tonsil cancer vary from person to person, but in general, patients should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If they experience breathing problems, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or wheezing, they should call 911 immediately. Surgical removal of the cancerous tissue is typically recommended for patients with advanced disease, but surgery may be required in some cases. The best treatment for tonsil cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease.
Symptoms of tonsil cancer include painless swelling in the neck and sore throat. It can also occur in people who have already had their tonsils removed. Most cases of tonsil cancer are squamous cell carcinomas, but some can be lymphomas. There are also increased risks for cancer of the tonsils when smoking, drinking alcohol, or using HPV. While there are no known preventive methods, it is important to consult your doctor if you experience these symptoms.
If the doctor suspects cancer, a biopsy will be needed. In some cases, the ENT can remove cancer cells from the tonsil in the office and send the samples to a pathologist to determine whether the cancer cells are indeed cancer. A biopsy may involve a biopsy of the whole tonsil or a small piece of tissue. The biopsy may also include HPV. A biopsy of the tonsil is usually a painless procedure.
Treatment of tonsil cancer may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or both. The treatment depends on the size of the tonsil and its stage and the patient’s overall health. Surgical procedures and chemotherapy may be recommended if the cancer has spread to lymph nodes. Patients may also need reconstructive surgery to restore the ability to eat. Finally, radiation therapy may be recommended. These treatments are often effective in killing cancer cells. So, it is important to choose the treatment that is best for you.
Chemotherapy is another treatment for tonsil cancer. The aim of this treatment is to stop the growth of cancer cells by targeting their DNA. Chemotherapy involves drugs to kill cancer cells. The most common type of chemotherapy used to treat tonsil cancer is cisplatin. Some patients may receive carboplatin instead. These drugs help reduce tumor growth and may even slow the disease. Once a patient’s diagnosis is made, treatment may begin.