Diagnosis and Stages of Head & Neck Cancer
Early discovery is crucial for treating cancer successfully. To diagnose head and neck cancer, your healthcare provider will perform several examinations and tests: Physical Exam : Your provider checks your mouth, nose, throat, and neck for any abnormalities or lumps. Endoscopy: Using a small, lighted tube (endoscope), your provider can examine specific areas, such as the nasal cavity or voice box, to see what might be causing your symptoms. Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans create images inside your head and neck, helping to identify any cancerous areas. Lab Tests: Blood tests may be conducted to check for viruses like HPV or EBV. Biomarker testing might also be performed to identify specific proteins associated with head and neck cancers, which can guide treatment decisions. Biopsy: This involves taking a tissue sample from the affected area to examine it under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells. A biopsy is the only way to confirm a canc