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 cancer diagnosis. Different methods, such as fine needle aspiration or core needle biopsy, might be used.

Staging of Head and Neck Cancers

Staging determines how advanced the cancer is and helps plan the treatment. The TNM system (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) is used for staging head and neck cancers. This system considers factors such as the tumor's size and location, whether cancer has spread to lymph nodes, and whether it has metastasized to other parts of the body.

Staging is classified from I to IV, with higher numbers indicating more advanced disease. The treatment plan is determined by the cancer stage, your age, and overall health. The stage and location of the cancer determine the specific staging used for treatment planning. 

Get Consultation from Specialist

If you are suffering from head and neck cancer then you need to consult with a Head & Neck Cancer Specialist. Dr. Seema Singh who is a Cancer Doctor working as a Principal Surgical oncologist at Yashoda Super Speciality Hospital treats Head & Neck Cancer. You can book your consultation with her.


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