ear, nose, and throat disorders
Overview of Head and Neck Tumors
Diagnosis of Head and Neck Tumors
Clinical evaluation Biopsy Imaging tests and endoscopy to evaluate extent of disease Routine physical examination (including a thorough oral examination) is the best way to detect cancers early before they become symptomatic. Commercially available brush biopsy kits help screen for oral cancers. Unexplained head and neck symptoms such as sore throat, hoarseness, or otalgia lasting>2 to 3 weeks should prompt referral to a head and neck specialist who will typically do flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy to evaluate the larynx and pharynx. Definitive diagnosis usually requires a biopsy. Fine-needle aspiration is used for a Neck Mass ; it is well tolerated, accurate, and, unlike an open biopsy, does not impact future treatment options. Oral lesions are evaluated with an incisional biopsy or a brush biopsy. Nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, or laryngeal lesions are biopsied endoscopically. Imaging (CT, MRI, or PET/CT) is done to help determine the extent of the primary tumor, involvement of adjacent structures, and spread to cervical lymph nodes. 