Tonsil cancer is a rare malignancy that affects people of any age, but is more common in males over 50 with a history of tobacco and alcohol use. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, pain, and bloody saliva. Treatment involves surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
Tonsil cancer is a rare type of malignancy that can affect people of any age, although it is more common in males over the age of 50 who have a history of tobacco and alcohol use. A tumor that develops in the lymphoid tissue on one side of the throat can cause a large lump on the neck and make it difficult to swallow. Treatment for tonsil cancer is most effective when the cancer is detected early and usually involves a combination of surgery and radiation therapy. If left untreated, the cancer can quickly spread to other parts of the throat and mouth.
Tonsils are important sections of tissue that help the immune system defend against viruses and bacteria. Their function can be impaired by the growth of malignant tumors, leading to frequent infections and diseases. A person with tonsil cancer is likely to notice swelling or a sore in the back of the throat, constant pain, and bloody saliva. Difficulty swallowing and breathing are common as tumors grow. In some cases, tonsil cancer leads to the growth of visible lumps on the neck that can be hard and tender to the touch.
Most cases of tonsil cancer are directly linked to years of alcohol and tobacco use. People with weakened immune systems are also at risk, particularly people with HIV or congenital autoimmune disorders. People who don’t consume enough fruits and vegetables can develop cancer due to a lack of vitamins important to support the immune system. Additionally, doctors believe that some strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to throat and mouth cancer.
An individual experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of tonsil cancer should visit their primary care physician for an initial screening. Your doctor may examine nodules in your neck and look down your throat for signs of damaged tissue. If the doctor suspects cancer, the patient is usually referred to an otolaryngologist for further tests. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are usually done to check for tumors, and a tissue biopsy can confirm the results. Once a diagnosis has been made, specialists can determine the best course of treatment.
Surgeons usually attempt to remove tumors when they are found in their early stages. Small surgical tools and lights are inserted through the mouth and used to cut through entire masses of malignant tissue. If the cancer begins to spread, however, surgery may not be enough. A combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can help slow the progression of cancer elsewhere in the body. Patients may be prescribed medications for HPV or other underlying ailments and asked to abstain from tobacco and alcohol to prevent further complications.
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