Head and Neck Cancers

Head and neck cancers constitute approximately 4% of all cancers seen in our body. These cancers; includes cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, sinus and nose, salivary gland and thyroid. Smoking and alcohol consumption, HPV virus, occupational carcinogen exposure, radiation exposure, premalignant mucosal diseases in the mouth and some genetic causes are among the risk factors.

Symphtoms of Head and Neck Cancers

Patients mostly;

• A wound and bleeding that does not go away in the mouth,
• Difficulty in swallowing and pain, prolonged hoarseness and difficulty in breathing,
• Nasal congestion and discharge,
• Nose bleeding,
• They apply with growing masses in the cheek area or neck.

Patients with such complaints should undergo a complete ear, nose, throat and head and neck examination, including endoscopic nasal, throat and larynx examination. After this examination, in suspicious cases, the diagnosis can be made with advanced imaging methods and biopsy.

Identification of the affected organ or area by otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery physicians, surgical removal of the cancerous organ accordingly, and the application of radiotherapy as a complementary treatment according to the tumor stage is the first treatment method in many head and neck cancers. In some patients, combined treatments may be recommended after the surgical procedure.