Head and Neck Tumors image

Head and Neck Tumors

Opr. Dr. Mehmet ÖZGENÇ -

Head and Neck Tumors are malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous) growths originating from the organs and tissues in the head and neck area. These tumours can be found in regions such as the mouth, nose, sinuses, pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), salivary glands, thyroid, and lymph nodes.


1. How Is Diagnosis Made?

Early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment and maintaining the patient’s quality of life.


A. Symptoms:

  • Non-healing sore in the mouth or throat
  • Painless lump in the neck
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Hoarseness or persistent voice changes
  • Nasal congestion, bloody discharge
  • Ear pain or hearing loss


B. Clinical Evaluation:

  • Detailed medical history
  • Physical examination: Careful assessment of the head, neck, and lymph nodes


2. What Tests Are Conducted?


Imaging Techniques:

  1. CT (Computed Tomography): Used to assess tumour size and spread.
  2. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Preferred for detailed examination of soft tissues.
  3. PET-CT: To evaluate tumour metabolic activity and detect metastasis.
  4. Ultrasonography: For assessing lymph nodes in the neck region.


Laboratory Tests:

  • Blood tests: Tumor markers and thyroid function tests
  • Biopsy: The gold standard for diagnosis; fine needle aspiration (FNAB) or excisional biopsy can be performed.
  • Endoscopy: To examine areas such as the larynx, pharynx, or nasal cavity.


3. Treatment Methods and Surgeries


A. Surgical Treatment:

  1. Tumor Resection: Removal of tumor tissue.
  2. Neck Dissection: Removal of lymph nodes if lymph node involvement is present.
  3. Microsurgical Reconstruction: To address functional and aesthetic losses.
  4. Laryngectomy: Removal of the larynx if necessary for laryngeal tumours.
  5. Parotidectomy: Surgery for salivary gland tumours.


B. Radiotherapy:

High-energy radiation kills tumour cells. Used alone in early stages or combined with other therapies in advanced stages.


C. Chemotherapy:

Systemic drugs to destroy tumour cells, often combined with radiotherapy.


D. Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapies:

Drugs designed based on the cancer's molecular characteristics (e.g., PD-1 inhibitors, EGFR-targeted therapies).


E. Palliative Care:

For advanced cases, focusing on symptom control and improving quality of life.