Head & Neck Cancer is a large group of various different kinds of cancer that affects the head and neck region.
These cancers are subdivided into their anatomical sites of origin and the type of cancer biology. In this group we include:
- Skin cancer (Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, melanoma, etc)
- Sinus & Nasal Cancer (adenocarcinoma, SCC, inverting papilloma, etc.)
- Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (SCC, common in Chinese, South East Asians and Pasifika)
- Oral Cancer (lip, tongue, floor of mouth, hard & soft palate)
- Oropharyngeal Cancer (increasing incidence of HPV positive tonsil SCC, base of tongue SCC, etc)
- Laryngeal cancer (voice box/vocal cord SCC)
- Thyroid cancer (papillary thyroid carcinoma, medullary, follicular, anaplastic)
- Salivary gland carcinoma (mucoepidermoid, adenoid cystic, acinic, etc)
The psychology and effect of cancer in the face, nose, throat and mouth is extremely debilitating and deforming. Patients will present with some of the mildest symptoms such as nasal obstruction, sore throat or hoarse voice. If these symptoms persist, getting a quick diagnosis is critical as the cancer outcome is determined by how early the cancer is detected. The ENT surgeon has a critical role in early diagnosis and collaborative management of the cancer. The ultimate treatment may require surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or a combination of the above.
Dr Levi is part of the St.Vincent’s Hospital Head & Neck Cancer Multidisciplinary Team and the Royal Children’s Hospital Solid Tumour MDT. All cancer of the Head & Neck must be treated by a Multidisciplinary Team.
Getting an expert assessment and opinion is always a good first step. Please contact us for an appointment. Dr Levi is also available to provide educational talks on this topic.
