What are Head and Neck Cancers?

Head and neck cancers describe a diverse group of malignant tumors that can occur in the head and neck region. They are commonly found in the following areas:  

• Oral cavity (mouth lining, gums, lips and tongue)
• Pharynx (soft palate, tonsils)
• Larynx (voice box, vocal cords and epiglottis)
• Sinuses and nasal cavity
• Salivary glands
• Scalp
• Thyroid gland

“Head and neck cancers are unique types of tumors that involve many different organs and tissues in the head and neck area,” says Arnbjorn Toset, MD, Director of Head and Neck Surgery at Catholic Health.

Head and neck cancers usually begin in the squamous cells in the mucosal linings of the head and neck (inside the mouth, throat, and voice box). These type of cancers are referred to as squamous cell carcinoma. Cancers can also start in in the salivary glands, sinuses, muscles or nerves in the head and neck, but they are less common than squamous cell carcinomas.

Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer

Symptoms of head and neck cancers can vary based on the location of the tumor and may include:

• A lump on the jaw, mouth, or the neck
• A new lump on the neck that is painless
• Mouth ulcer
• A sore of the lip or spot on the skin
• Ongoing nasal congestion or sinus infections that do not respond to treatment
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Numbness of the tongue or other areas
• Sore throat or throat pain
• Pain or weakness in the face
• Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
• Sudden speech problems – a hoarse or quieter voice than usual
• Difficulty breathing
• White or red patches in the mouth or throat
• Weight loss

Symptoms of head and neck tumors may often resemble those caused by other conditions. If you have concerns about any of these symptoms, speak with your doctor.

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Self-Exams for Head and Neck Cancers  

A self-examination can help with early detection of head and neck cancers, resulting in better treatment options, a more positive prognosis and a curable outcome. 

When Should You Perform a Self-Exam?

Self-exams are quick and easy and can often be performed during your daily hygiene routine.

• Feel your scalp for any lumps while you wash your hair and shower

• Look inside your mouth while you brush your teeth
• Examine your face and neck for any abnormalities when you look in the mirror

What Should You Look For?

• Feel for any lumps on the neck and head
• Feel both sides of your neck for lumps or changes
• Always look for asymmetrical differences (i.e.- a lump on one side of the neck, but not on the other)
• Look for ulcers, sores, or red or white patches in the mouth
• Always check your lips, inside cheeks, tongue and roof of your mouth
• Look for any lacerations or bumps on the face

What are the Causes of Head and Neck Cancers?

There are various causes and factors that can increase the risk for head and neck cancers. Certain risk factors can be reduced by simply changing your behavior. Causes may include:

• Tobacco – Smoking and smokeless tobacco products (snuff and chewing tobacco).
• Alcohol – Drinking alcohol is a major risk factor for head and neck cancer.
• Tobacco and Alcohol Combined – The combination of tobacco and alcohol use increases the risk of head and neck cancer.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – There is a strong link between an HPV infection and head and neck cancer. The HPV 16 strain is most commonly linked to head and neck cancer, and less often, the HPV 18 strain.
• Occupational exposure to inhalants including asbestos, wood dust, nickel alloy dust, and silica dust.
• Poor oral hygiene
• Radiation Exposure – Previous radiation to the head and neck increases the risk of salivary gland cancer.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Ultraviolet Light – Lip cancer is most common among people who spend time in the sun and in tanning beds.
• Exposure to the Epstein-Barr virus
• Certain genetic syndromes including Fanconi anemia

How are Head and Neck Cancers Diagnosed?

Your doctor will review your symptoms, perform a thorough examination of the head and neck area, and look inside your mouth and throat to detect any abnormalities. Additional diagnostic tests may include: 

• Endoscopy
• Barium swallow – Helps detect abnormalities in the esophagus.
• CT scan
• PET scan
• MRI
• Panorex – An X-ray that provides a panoramic view of the entire mouth, including teeth, jawbone, and surrounding areas.
• HPV Test
• Needle aspiration or surgical biopsy
• Genomic testing

Dr. Toset summarizes, “Overall, head and neck cancers will have a good prognosis if caught early enough. Cancer discovered early through self-examinations that lead you to see your doctor and then a head and neck surgeon can result in an optimal, curable outcome.”

Treatments for Head and Neck Cancers

When detected early, head and neck cancers are very treatable. The approach to treatment can vary based on the individual patient (including factors like age and overall health), the location of the tumor, and the stage and severity of the cancer. Treatments may include: 

• Surgery to remove the tumor
• Radiation to destroy cancer cells
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Immunotherapy

Effective treatments may also include a combination of several different treatment methods.

Find Care at Catholic Health

Find a Catholic Health doctor near you. Or call 866-MY-LI-DOC (866-695-4362).