How Is Head & Neck Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosing head and neck cancer involves evaluating symptoms and conducting specific tests, such as:
- Physical Exam: A thorough head, neck, and throat examination.
- Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera used to examine internal structures.
- Biopsy: A tissue sample taken for laboratory analysis.
- CT Scan or MRI: Imaging tests to assess the spread of cancer.
- PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Scan: Imaging test that uses a special dye with radioactive tracers to allow your doctor to check for diseases in your body.
- X-ray or Barium Swallow: Highlights abnormalities in the throat and esophagus.
Related Link
Expert Advice for Newly Diagnosed Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Head & Neck Cancer Staging and Subtypes
Head & Neck Cancer Staging
- Stage I: Cancer is localized to a small area.
- Stage II: Cancer has grown but remains confined to the primary site.
- Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or structures.
- Stage IV: Cancer has metastasized to distant organs or extensive lymph nodes.
Head & Neck Cancer Subtypes
The most common types of head and neck cancer include:
- Larynx cancer
- Salivary gland cancers
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Tongue cancer
- Throat cancer
- Thyroid cancer
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Essential Testing
Once diagnosed, additional testing may be required to help guide treatment plans, including:
- Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Assesses tumor depth and involvement.
- Biomarker Testing: Identifies certain genes, proteins, or other molecules in a sample of tissue, blood, or other body fluid.
- Laparoscopy or Other Minimally Invasive Procedures: Used to check for cancer spread.
Head & Neck Cancer Biomarkers
- HPV Status (especially in oropharyngeal cancers)
- PD-L1 Expression (impacts immunotherapy eligibility)
- p16 Protein Testing
- EGFR Expression
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Head and Neck Cancer | Key Factors Affecting Treatment Decisions
Head & Neck Cancer Diagnosis & Testing Programs
Provides actionable advice and downloadable materials to help you communicate clearly and effectively with your head and neck healthcare team.
Topics:
- Understanding Head & Neck Cancer
- Head & Neck Cancer Treatment Approaches
- Tips for Head & Neck Cancer Patient Self-Advocacy
- Planning Your Head & Neck Cancer Doctor’s Office Visit
- Pro-Active Head & Neck Cancer Toolkit Resources
