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Mercy cancer specialists are experts at diagnosing head and neck cancers. If you have signs or symptoms of head and neck cancer, your doctor will take a complete medical history and family history. Your oncology team will use also use a range of tests & tools designed for diagnosing head & neck cancer. The types of procedures that may be used to diagnose head and neck cancer include the following.
Many head and neck cancers can be treated, especially when found early. Treatment options depend on several factors, including the type and stage of head and neck cancer, possible side effects, overall health and patient preferences. Treatment options for and neck cancers generally include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
Several types of cancer surgery are used to treat head and neck cancer, including:
Depending on the type and stage of head and neck cancer, radiation therapy can be used alone or given after surgery, with or without chemotherapy.
Systemic therapies are medicines that travel throughout the body to treat cancer. Types of systemic therapies used to treat head and neck cancers include chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
Chemotherapy is a medication that destroys cancer cells to keep them from growing or multiplying. It may be given alone or with other treatments, such as surgery and radiation therapy.
Targeted therapy identifies and attacks specific molecules (molecular targets) on cancer cells that help them grow and spread.
Some treatments for head and neck cancers can affect appearance, speech, swallowing ability, taste or smell. Following cancer treatment, you may need physical, occupational or speech therapy. Mercy offers a wide range of oncology therapy services and support groups to help you strengthen skills such as speaking clearly or swallowing.
Rest assured Mercy will be with you every step of the way on your road to recovery. We’ll provide the medical care and emotional support you need to conquer your fears — and your cancer.