This information is intended to provide a general overview of oropharyngeal cancer. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health.
Oropharyngeal cancer is the most frequently diagnosed form of throat cancer. It develops in the oropharynx, the section of the throat situated at the back of the mouth.
The oropharynx encompasses several structures, including:
This area is part of the pharynx, a tube-like structure that plays a critical role in both breathing and swallowing, connecting the nasal cavity to the oesophagus and trachea.
Symptoms can vary between individuals and are often linked to the cancer's exact location. Early detection is vital for the best outcome.
Symptoms that often prompt an initial medical consultation include:
Symptoms that may signal a more advanced stage of the cancer include:
A painless lump in the neck, which is often a lymph node swollen with cancer cells. If a neck lump does not resolve with standard treatment like antibiotics, further investigation is essential.
Crucial Note: Many of these symptoms can be caused by much less serious conditions such as allergies or infections. If any symptom persists for more than two weeks or does not improve despite appropriate treatment, consulting a specialist, such as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor, is essential for a proper evaluation.
An early and accurate diagnosis is critical for a successful treatment outcome and to help preserve quality of life, especially the ability to speak and swallow. Your doctor will conduct a physical examination and take a detailed medical, lifestyle (including smoking and drinking), and family history.
Often the initial test, a doctor passes a small camera through the nose to examine the pharynx and larynx, which helps determine if a biopsy is necessary.
This is the only definitive method to diagnose cancer. A small sample of suspected cancerous tissue is retrieved for microscopic study. Techniques include:
Used to locate the cancer, determine if it has spread, and monitor its response to treatment. These include CT, PET, and MRI scans.
Procedures such as a Barium Swallow or Fiberoptic Endoscopic Examination of Swallowing (FEES) help doctors assess the function of the throat to inform the treatment plan.
At SSCHRC, treatment for throat cancer is highly customised with the goal of maximising the chance of cure while preserving crucial functions like speaking, breathing, and swallowing. Care is provided by a dedicated multidisciplinary team of experts.
A common treatment for oropharyngeal cancer, with less invasive techniques leading to much shorter recovery times.
Drugs used to kill cancer cells. It may be used to shrink a tumour before surgery, or combined with radiation therapy as the primary treatment for patients with larger tumours.
Focused beams of energy to destroy cancer cells. Advanced techniques like Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) is used to precisely target the tumour while sparing healthy surrounding tissue.
Newer therapies that work at a cellular level. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, for instance, enhance the body's own immune system to recognise and eliminate cancer cells. SSCHRC develops and participates in clinical trials to offer the latest advancements.
SSCHRC offers dedicated therapies and services to help patients manage post-treatment challenges, including:
Experts dedicated to evaluating and treating patients with difficulties eating, drinking, and speaking after treatment.
Performed by renowned reconstructive surgeons to address any impact on a patient's appearance.
Specialists in designing implants and performing procedures to restore appearance and function damaged by the disease or its treatments.
Regular follow-up and screenings are vital due to the high risk of the cancer returning (recurring) in the head and neck area. Patients are strongly advised to abstain from smoking and alcohol during and after treatment, as these habits can significantly reduce treatment success and increase the chance of recurrence.