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Head and Neck Cancers

Tumors of the oral cavity, throat, larynx, and salivary glands.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Head and Neck Cancers?

Head and neck cancers comprise tumors arising in the oral cavity, pharynx (nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx), larynx (voice box), salivary glands, paranasal sinuses, and thyroid. Most are squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) histologically.

Tobacco and alcohol are the major risk factors, and combined use multiplies the risk synergistically. In recent years, the role of HPV (especially HPV 16) in oropharyngeal cancers has grown significantly, and these HPV-associated tumors carry a better prognosis.

Early diagnosis in head and neck cancer increases curative chances and helps preserve speech, swallowing, and facial aesthetics — functions critical to quality of life. A multidisciplinary approach (head and neck surgery, radiation oncology, medical oncology) is indispensable.

Symptoms

Hoarseness or change in voice
Difficulty or pain on swallowing
Painless, persistent neck lymphadenopathy
Non-healing oral ulcer or white/red patch
Sense of ear fullness or unilateral hearing loss
Nosebleeds or unilateral nasal obstruction
Restricted mouth opening (trismus)

Risk Factors

Smoking and tobacco product use
Excessive alcohol consumption
HPV infection (especially for oropharyngeal cancer)
Epstein-Barr virus (for nasopharyngeal cancer)
Poor oral hygiene and chronic irritation
Excessive sun exposure (for lip cancer)
Occupational exposure to industrial chemicals

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Hoarseness lasting more than two weeks
  • A neck lymph node enlarging over several weeks
  • Non-healing oral ulcer, white or red patch
  • Difficulty swallowing or sore throat with ear pain
  • If you smoke and drink alcohol, regular ENT and oncology follow-up

Treatment Methods

01
Surgical resection: techniques tailored to tumor location (including transoral robotic surgery)
02
Radiotherapy: curative or adjuvant intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT)
03
Chemoradiotherapy: cisplatin-based concurrent chemo + radiotherapy
04
Targeted therapy: cetuximab (anti-EGFR) combined with radiotherapy
05
Immunotherapy: pembrolizumab or nivolumab (advanced or recurrent disease)
06
Speech, swallowing, and dietary rehabilitation: for functional recovery

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.