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Max Hospital, New Delhi [email protected]

Oropharyngeal Cancer

Oropharyngeal cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that develops in the middle part of the throat, including the tonsils, base of the tongue, and throat walls. Early detection and expert treatment are essential for better outcomes. We provide advanced, personalized oncology care for every patient.

Oropharyngeal Cancer

Signs & Symptoms

  • Persistent sore throat or difficulty swallowing
  • Hoarseness or voice changes
  • Lump in neck or throat region
  • Ear pain or persistent fullness
  • Unexplained weight loss


Risk Factors & Causes

  •  HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) infection
  •  Tobacco and smoking use
  •  Excessive alcohol consumption
  •  Age above 50 years
  •  Poor diet lacking fruits and vegetables


Diagnosis

  •  Physical examination of throat and neck
  •  Imaging tests (CT, MRI, PET scans)
  •  Biopsy for confirmation
  •  HPV testing on tumor tissue


Treatment Options

  •  Surgery: Removal of tumor using advanced robotic or transoral techniques
  •  Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams to destroy cancer cells
  •  Targeted Therapy: Focused drugs for specific cancer pathways
  •  Chemotherapy: Used in advanced or combined treatment cases


Expert Oropharyngeal Cancer Care

Early detection and timely treatment significantly improve survival in oropharyngeal cancer. Dr. Kumardeep Dutta Choudhury provides advanced, patient-centric oncology care with modern treatment approaches ensuring the best possible outcomes.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Oropharyngeal cancer is a subtype of cancer that occurs in the oropharynx, which is the middle section of the throat. It comprises the back of the tongue, soft palate, tonsils, and throat walls.

The survival rate depends on various factors, such as the HPV status and the stage of cancer. The prognosis of oropharyngeal carcinoma is better in HPV-positive patients, with a five-year survival rate of over 80% for localized disease.

Yes, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, mainly HPV-16, stands as one of the most important risk factors for oropharyngeal cancer. It has surpassed the number of cases related to tobacco use.

This includes:

  • An examination of the neck and throat.
  • X-ray imaging, a CT scan, or an MR scan.
  • Removing suspicious tissue for examination.
  • Testing tumor micro samples for HPV.

There are ways to limit the risk, including abstaining from the use of nicotine and alcohol, practicing the maintenance of oral health, and going for check-ups every so often to catch any problems early.