Overview
Tonsil cancer is an abnormal growth of cells that originates in a tonsil. Tonsils are two oval-shaped pads located at the back of the mouth, which are part of the body's immune system that helps fight germs. Tonsil cancer can cause difficulty swallowing and a sensation that something is caught in the throat. However, symptoms may not appear until the cancer has spread to nearby areas, such as the lymph nodes in the neck. Common signs and symptoms of tonsil cancer include difficulty swallowing, a sensation that something is caught in the back of the throat, swelling and pain in the neck, earache, and jaw stiffness. Risk factors for tonsil cancer may include the use of tobacco, alcohol consumption, and infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). Prevention strategies include avoiding tobacco and alcohol, maintaining regular dental care, and considering the HPV vaccine. If you experience any persistent signs and symptoms that worry you, it is recommended to consult your doctor or dentist.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of tonsil cancer may include difficulty swallowing, a sensation that something is caught in the back of the throat, swelling and pain in the neck, earache, and jaw stiffness. Other symptoms may include bad breath, mouth pain, sores in the mouth that won't heal, loose teeth, pain when swallowing, weight loss, and swelling in the neck that may be painful. If you experience any persistent signs and symptoms that worry you, it's important to make an appointment with your doctor or dentist.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing tonsil cancer include:
- Using tobacco
- Drinking alcohol
- Being infected with human papillomavirus (HPV)
Development
Tonsil cancer develops when healthy cells in the tonsils undergo changes in their DNA, causing them to grow out of control and continue living when healthy cells would normally die. These accumulating cells form a tumor that can grow beyond the tonsils and spread to other parts of the body. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is increasingly found to play a role in tonsil cancer, as it is detected in most tonsil cancers in the United States. Tonsil cancer caused by HPV tends to occur at a younger age and is more likely to respond well to available treatments. Other risk factors for tonsil cancer include using tobacco and drinking alcohol.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you experience persistent signs and symptoms of tonsil cancer, such as difficulty swallowing, a sensation that something is caught in the back of your throat, swelling and pain in the neck, earache, jaw stiffness, or any other symptoms that worry you.
Diagnosis
To diagnose tonsil cancer, your doctor will typically begin with a physical examination of your throat and neck. They will use a mirror or a small camera to examine your mouth and throat, and may use their hands to feel your neck for enlarged lymph nodes. Your doctor may also remove a tissue sample for testing to determine if cancer is present. This tissue sample will be sent to a lab for analysis by specially trained doctors (pathologists) who will look for signs of cancer. Your doctor may also recommend imaging tests, such as CT, MRI, or PET scans, to better understand the size of your cancer and to check for any signs that it may have spread beyond your tonsils.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of tonsil cancer may include:
- Difficulty swallowing: As the tumor grows, it can obstruct the airway and make it difficult to swallow food and fluids.
- Pain: Tonsil cancer may cause pain in the throat, neck, or ear, depending on its location and the extent of the tumor.
- Spread of cancer: Tonsil cancer can metastasize to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or bones, which can lead to further complications and reduced survival rates.
- Nerve damage: Surgery or radiation therapy may cause temporary or permanent nerve damage, leading to problems with speech, hearing, or swallowing.
- Infection: The removal of tonsil tissue may result in a higher risk of infections in the mouth or throat due to the loss of immune function provided by the tonsils.
- Treatment side effects: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause a range of side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and an increased risk of developing other cancers in the future. It is important to discuss the potential complications and risks associated with tonsil cancer treatment with your healthcare provider to make informed decisions about your care.
Prevention
To prevent tonsil cancer, you can:
- Don't use tobacco: If you don't use tobacco, don't start. If you currently use tobacco of any kind, talk with your doctor about strategies to help you quit.
- Limit alcohol: If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For healthy adults, that means up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men.
- Get regular dental care: During your appointment, your dentist will check your mouth for signs of cancer and precancerous changes.
- Consider the HPV vaccine: Receiving a vaccination to prevent HPV infection may reduce your risk of HPV-related cancers, such as tonsil cancer. Ask your doctor whether an HPV vaccine is appropriate for you.
Home Remedies
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of tonsil cancer.
Treatment
Treatment options for tonsil cancer depend on factors such as the size, stage, and HPV status of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Possible treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Surgery is often used to remove as much of the cancer as possible, and it can be performed through the mouth (transoral surgery) or with a larger incision in the neck. Radiation therapy uses high-powered beams of energy to kill cancer cells, and it may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy. Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells and can be used alone or in combination with radiation therapy. Clinical trials may also be an option for patients with HPV-related tonsil cancer.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for tonsil cancer, you should:
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions and ask your doctor if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restricting your diet.
- Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including those that may seem unrelated to tonsil cancer.
- Note down key personal information, such as major stresses or recent life changes.
- Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you're taking.
- Consider bringing a family member or friend for support and to help remember information discussed during the appointment.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor, such as:
- What is my stage of tonsil cancer?
- Can you explain the pathology report to me?
- Will I need more tests?
- What are the treatment options for my tonsil cancer?
- What are the benefits and risks of each option?
- Is there one treatment option you recommend over the others?
- Should I get a second opinion from a specialist?
- Are there any brochures or printed materials I can take with me?
- What websites do you recommend? Remember to be open and honest with your doctor about your symptoms and concerns, and don't hesitate to ask any additional questions that arise during the appointment.