The stage of head and neck cancer reflects the extent of the primary tumor, lymph nodes, and metastases to other organs. It varies widely, and each subtype has its own staging system. The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging website provides details on each subtype’s staging system. If you or someone in your family has a history of head and neck cancer, you may wish to learn more about this disease’s stage.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the above symptoms, a thorough examination is highly recommended. You may be experiencing a rash on the scalp or on the face, or your dentures may be fitting poorly. You may also be suffering from repeated sinus infections that don’t respond to antibiotics, pain in the neck, or a headache. Swelling of the face or neck, as well as pain while swallowing, may indicate cancer of the head and neck.
Most types of head and neck cancers are treated through surgery. The goal of surgery is to remove any cancerous cells that have spread to lymph nodes. However, this can be tricky, particularly if the cancer has spread near the larynx, which may cause the patient to lose their ability to speak. Additionally, surgery may remove cervical lymph nodes to stop the spread of the disease. If cancer spreads beyond the neck, it is often considered incurable.
When it comes to diagnosis of head and neck cancer, early detection is the key to successful treatment. It is estimated that approximately three-fourths of all cases of head and neck cancer can be detected during the physical exam. Your healthcare provider may perform a physical exam and order diagnostic tests. They will examine your mouth, throat, tongue, and neck for lumps or a tumor. Some tests may include a lighted tube procedure, called endoscopy. If cancer is found, your doctor will recommend chemotherapy or surgery to treat the condition.
In most cases, treatment of head and neck cancer involves radiation therapy and surgery. For small tumors without regional metastases, a wide surgical excision and curative radiation therapy may be enough. Larger primary tumors may require complete surgical excision or postoperative radiation. Fortunately, recent advances in medical care have resulted in improved survival rates. As such, chemotherapy is also a common form of treatment for head and neck cancer.
Early diagnosis is crucial for ensuring that treatment is successful. Regular follow-up care is necessary to ensure that the cancer has not returned or that no secondary cancer has developed. Early diagnosis is critical, especially for head and neck cancers unrelated to HPV infection. During these visits, your doctor may also perform a stoma or mouth exam. You may also have regular dental check-ups. It is crucial to keep the neck and throat clean and free of foreign bodies, including tobacco and alcohol.
Many people develop head and neck cancer as a result of a variety of reasons. Chronic sinusitis, smoking, and cigarette smoking are all risk factors. Chronic infections can increase your risk of this disease, as can aging. Drinking too much alcohol, chewing tobacco, and being exposed to secondhand smoke. While smoking can lead to head and neck cancer, drinking alcohol can also increase your risk. These conditions are also linked to many other types of cancer, including melanoma, which affects the head and neck.
