Head and Neck Cancer

Expert treatment for head, neck and throat cancers

A smiling middle-aged African-American couple represents the full life that can be led after treatment for head and neck cancer.

Expert treatment for head, neck and throat cancers

Head and neck cancers affect the head, neck and throat. This includes the mouth, tongue, lips, salivary glands and larynx. Cancer that affects the skin of the head, face or neck is skin cancer.

 

Scripps Cancer Center treats head and neck cancers with a variety of therapies. Oncologists personalize treatment based on the cancer type, stage, medical history and overall health. Learn more about the various types of head and neck cancer below.

Laryngeal cancer

Laryngeal cancer and hypopharyngeal cancer start in the throat and are commonly referred to as throat cancer. They begin in or around the larynx, or voice box, which is needed for speaking, breathing and swallowing.

 

Throat cancer symptoms include a constant sore throat or cough, difficult or painful swallowing, or a lump in the neck. Treatment depends on the location and stage of cancer and may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or a combination of these. Learn more about laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer.

Metastatic squamous neck cancer with occult primary

Commonly known as neck cancer, metastatic squamous neck cancer with occult primary develops when squamous cell cancer that starts elsewhere in the body spreads to lymph nodes in the neck.

 

The main symptoms of neck cancer are a lump or pain in the neck area. Treatment typically includes surgery, radiation therapy or both. Learn more about neck cancer.

Mouth cancer

Mouth cancer begins in the mouth or throat and includes lip cancer, oral cavity cancer, salivary gland cancer and oropharyngeal cancer. Tobacco use is the main risk factor for mouth cancer.


Mouth cancer symptoms include persistent pain or sores in the mouth, white or red patches in the mouth, problems chewing or swallowing, and numbness or swelling. Treatment typically involves surgery, and may include radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Learn more about mouth cancer.

Nasopharyngeal cancer

Nasopharyngeal cancer is a rare cancer that develops in the upper throat behind the nose (nasopharynx). There are several types of nasopharyngeal cancer, and treatment plans depend on the type and stage of the cancer. Because of the tumor’s location, surgery is difficult. In most cases, treatment involves a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Learn more about nasopharyngeal cancer.

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer begins in the thyroid gland in the front of the neck. About 75% of thyroid cancers occur in women, and women tend to be diagnosed at a younger age than men. A family history of thyroid cancer can increase the risk.


Thyroid cancer treatment usually involves surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland. Radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy may be used to destroy cancer cells that were not removed during surgery. Thyroid hormone therapy may be part of the treatment plan to control hormone levels. Learn more about thyroid cancer.