Head And Neck Tumors Specialist

What Techniques are Used in the Diagnosis of Head and Neck Tumors?

Head and neck tumors are diagnosed in a variety of ways. If a tumor is noticed on the head or neck, the first thing the doctor will do is perform a thorough physical examination. If a tumor or cyst is identified during the examination, the doctor may order an endoscopy procedure, a CT/PET scan, or an MRI. In some cases, an x-ray may be performed. If any of the procedures indicate the presence of a tumor, the doctor may request a tissue biopsy. If there is a possibility that the lump or tumor is cancerous, the doctor may remove it before it is biopsied. This not only prevents the spread of any cancer cells, it also helps to minimize potential scarring if the cyst was beginning to grow.

What Causes Head and Neck Tumors?

Head and neck tumors are often caused by cancer. It is important to remember that smaller lumps may be lymph nodes. There are several lymph nodes located at various places on the head and along the sides of the neck. If a cancerous tumor is present anywhere on the head or neck, the lymph nodes may also be affected. If only the lymph nodes are swollen, it may indicate an ear, sinus, or throat infection may be present. Lymph nodes that are actively functioning to eliminate an infection may become enlarged and be tender to the touch. When cancer is present, the doctor may remove the cancerous tumor as well as any lymph nodes that may be in the area.

How are Head and Neck Tumors Treated?

In most cases, head and neck tumors are surgically removed. This may also include the removal of any lymph nodes that may be near the tumor. Radiation and chemotherapy are also used to effectively treat head and neck tumors. The doctor may choose to use radiation and chemotherapy after the tumor has been surgically removed to make sure no cancer cells have metastasized to other areas of the head or neck. Because the job of the lymph nodes is to fight off invading cells, they may become infected by the cancer cells. The doctors will often isolate the lymph nodes closest to where the tumor was located and remove them as well.