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Here’s what is referred to as Head and Neck Cancer
Head and neck cancers typically develop in the squamous cells lining the head and neck mucosal surfaces (for example, those inside the mouth, throat, and voice box). These tumours are referred to as head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Malignancies of the head and neck can also arise in the salivary glands, sinuses, muscles, or nerves of the head and neck, but these cancers are less common.
Types of Head and Neck Cancer:
There are five primary forms of head and neck cancer, each of which is called after the portion of the body in which it develops.
They can include:
Laryngeal and
hypopharyngeal cancer:
The larynx is commonly referred to as the voice box. This tube-shaped neck organ is essential for breathing, speaking, and swallowing. It is placed at the top of the trachea, or windpipe. The hypopharynx is referred to as the gullet. The lower portion of the throat encompasses the larynx.
Nasal cavity and
paranasal sinus cancer:
The nasal cavity is the space immediately behind the nose via which air travels to the throat. The air-filled regions surrounding the nasal cavity are the paranasal sinuses.
Nasopharyngeal cancer:
The nasopharynx is the airway behind the nose and the upper portion of the throat.
Oral and oropharyngeal
cancer:
Oral cavity consists of the mouth and tongue. From the tonsils to the tip of the voice box, is the oropharynx that encompasses the central portion of the throat.
Salivary gland cancer:
The salivary gland is responsible for saliva production. Saliva is the fluid that is secreted into the mouth to keep it moist; it contains enzymes that initiate the digestion of food.
Signs that indicate the presence of Head and Neck Cancer:
Risk factors that can increase the chance of Head and Neck Cancer:
Tobacco: |
Tobacco use includes cigarettes, cigars, and pipes, as well as chewing tobacco and snuff use. It is the leading cause of head and neck cancer. Researchers estimate that 70 to 80 percent of head and neck cancers are linked to tobacco use, and the amount of tobacco use may influence the prognosis, or the likelihood of recovery. Additionally, passive smoking may raise an individual's risk of developing head and neck,and lung cancer. |
Alcohol: |
Frequent and heavy alcohol drinking increases the risk of oral, pharyngeal, laryngeal, and esophageal cancer. |
Long sun exposure: |
This is strongly associated with lip cancer and skin cancer of the head and neck due to harmful UV rays. |
Human papillomavirus (HPV): |
According to research, HPV infection is a risk factor for head and neck cancer. Sexual contact with a person who has HPV is the most prevalent route of transmission. There are various forms of HPV, known as strains. Some HPV strains are more strongly associated with certain cancer forms, according to research. |
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV): |
EBV exposure, also known as the virus that causes mononucleosis or "mono," contributes to the development of nasopharyngeal cancer. |
Environmental or occupational inhalants: |
Asbestos, wood dust, paint fumes, and some chemicals may raise an individual's risk of developing head and neck cancer. |
Diagnosis and early screening of Head and Neck Cancer:
Physical examination:
Physical examination:An examination of the mouth and nose, the throat, and the tongue. A lump on your neck, lips, gums, or cheeks may be felt by your healthcare professional.
Endoscopy:
Endoscopy:If you are suffering problems in your voice box, throat, or nasal cavity, an endoscope may be used to conduct an examination. And this procedure causes no discomfort. Blood, urine, or other bodily fluids are sent to a lab for analysis.The areas inside your head and neck can be visualized via X-rays, CAT scans, MRIs, or PET scans. It is up to your healthcare professional to select which tests are most appropriate for your situation.
Biopsy:
Biopsy:A pathologist examines the tissue your cancer treatment doctor has removed under a microscope. Cancer can only be accurately diagnosed in this manner. There are a variety of ways to do this procedure, including a local anesthetic and a needle. Alternatively, you may be required to undergo a general anesthesia in the operating room.
Treatment options that are available to treat the various types of Head and Neck Cancer:
Identifying the tumour's stage is the first step in treating head and neck cancer. The tumor's stage, as well as your age, general health, and location, will influence your treatment decision.
Radiation therapy, surgery, and chemotherapy are the most common treatments for head and neck cancers. In some cases, a patient may be treated with all four.
01 Surgery:
In early stage tumour, surgeons have the option of removing the tumour and a small amount of healthy surrounding tissue. If the cancer has migrated to the lymph nodes in the neck, they may also be removed. The patient's appearance and ability to chew, talk, and swallow may be affected by surgery on the head and neck. Reconstructive surgery and speech therapy may be necessary for some people because of these reasons. You can undergo surgery at a Surgical cancer center in Coimbatore, if your specialist has recommended it.
02 Radiation therapy:
- High energy X-rays or Gamma rays are used to destroy cancer cells.
- This is done with the use of a linear accelerator or Telecobalt machine.
- Various advanced techniques are available to reduce normal tissue doses
- Some of the possible adverse effects of radiation therapy are the development of sores or inflammation in the treated area, swallowing or tasting difficulties or nausea. Speak to your radiation oncologist about any adverse effects you're experiencing so that they can give you advice on how to handle them.
03 Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy is the employment of anti-cancer medications to kill cancer cells all over the body. It is typically used for advanced-stage head and neck malignancies. Sores in the mouth, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, weariness, rash, joint discomfort, and hair loss are all possible side effects. Consult your oncology specialist about how to address these side effects.
04 Chemo Radiation:
If surgery is not feasible then, patients are advised to undergo chemo radiation concurrently. Radiotherapy with high precision techniques (IMRT, IGRT) will deliver high dose to required areas and lesser doses to normal tissues.
