Head and Neck Cancer Diagnosis

 

Physical Exam for Head and Neck Cancer
Your doctor will thoroughly examine the head and neck area, feeling for abnormalities, looking inside the mouth and throat, and using mirrors and lights to examine hard-to-see areas. An experienced doctor may be able to detect problems that a less-experienced one might not observe.

Endoscopy
In some cases, your doctor may use an endoscope (a thin lighted tube with a camera at its tip). This tool is helpful in examining areas of the head and neck that are more difficult to reach. The tube may be inserted through the nose or mouth. A topical anesthetic (a medication applied directly to the nose and throat) can make the examination more comfortable for you.

Biopsy
Your doctor may be able to make a diagnosis based on a needle aspiration of the tumor. However, many people need to have a surgical biopsy. During a biopsy, a surgeon removes a small amount of abnormal tissue from the area where the cancer is suspected. A pathologist then examines the sample under a microscope and works with the other members of the care team to make a diagnosis.

Diagnostic Imaging for Head and Neck Cancer
As part of making a diagnosis, a radiologist takes special X-rays of your throat. These may include CT scans, PET scans and MRIs.

HPV Testing for Throat Cancer

People with an HPV-positive throat cancer have a better prognosis than those with other forms of the disease. We may be able to offer you a less-intensive treatment plan that reduces your side effects without affecting your chances for a cure.