Head & Neck Cancers
01 — Head & Neck Cancers
Overview
Head and neck cancers can develop in areas including the mouth, throat, larynx, nose, sinuses and salivary glands. Different sites and tumour types can behave differently, so diagnosis and treatment need to be tailored to the individual.
Medical oncology may be used alongside surgery and radiation therapy depending on the location, stage and characteristics of the cancer. Coordinated care is particularly important when more than one treatment modality is required.
-
Where it can developMouth, throat, larynx, nose, sinuses and salivary glands
-
BehaviourDiffers by site and tumour type
-
CareMedical oncology alongside surgery and radiation therapy
02 — Head & Neck Cancers
Common Signs & Symptoms
-
01A persistent sore or ulcer in the mouth or throat
-
02Difficulty or pain when swallowing
-
03Persistent hoarseness or voice changes
-
04A lump in the neck
-
05Persistent ear pain without an obvious cause
-
06Unexplained weight loss or ongoing throat discomfort
These signs do not always mean cancer, but any new or persistent symptom should be assessed by a doctor.
03 — Head & Neck Cancers
Diagnosis & Staging
Evaluation may include a clinical examination, endoscopic assessment, imaging and biopsy. Pathology helps identify the tumour type and provides information needed for treatment planning. Staging investigations determine the extent of disease and whether it has spread to other areas. The findings are then considered alongside the patient’s overall health when deciding on the appropriate treatment approach.
- 1
Clinical & endoscopic assessment
A clinical examination and endoscopic assessment of the affected area.
- 2
Imaging
Used as part of the evaluation of the disease.
- 3
Biopsy
Obtains a tissue sample for diagnosis.
- 4
Pathology
Helps identify the tumour type and provides information needed for treatment planning.
- 5
Staging investigations
Determine the extent of disease and whether it has spread to other areas.
04 — Head & Neck Cancers
Treatment Options
Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy, depending on the cancer site and stage. These treatments may be used individually or in combination as part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan.
Surgery
May be used individually or in combination, depending on the cancer site and stage.
Radiation therapy
May be used individually or in combination, depending on the cancer site and stage.
Systemic treatments
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
Role of medical treatment by extent of disease
- Localised
- Locally advanced
- Metastatic
Medical treatment can have different roles depending on the extent of disease. The specific strategy is therefore determined by the individual diagnosis.
05 — Head & Neck Cancers
Dr. Taori’s Approach
Dr. Taori has academic experience in head and neck oncology, including presentations on primary head and neck lymphoma and extranodal lymphoma involving the oral cavity and nasopharynx. His medical oncology care is coordinated with other specialists when combined treatment is required. He considers the confirmed pathology and extent of disease when assessing the role of systemic treatment. This supports a coordinated approach across the different disciplines involved in head and neck cancer care.
- Academic experience in head and neck oncology
- Considers the confirmed pathology and extent of disease
- Coordinates with other specialists when combined treatment is required
06 — Head & Neck Cancers
Consultation
If you have a head or neck cancer diagnosis or persistent symptoms requiring specialist assessment, an oncology consultation can help determine the appropriate next steps. Dr. Taori can review your diagnosis and explain the potential role of medical oncology within your wider treatment plan.
Explore Other Cancer Types
Learn more about the other cancers Dr. Taori manages.