Head and neck cancer

A rare group of cancers that can originate in any tissue or organ within the head or neck. If you are diagnosed with head and neck cancer, you will have immediate access to our world-leading consultants and state-of-the-art hospitals
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020 7079 4344

020 7079 4344

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Types of head and neck cancer 

Larynx cancer

Most cancers of the larynx are squamous cell carcinomas. This means the cancer starts in the thin, flat cells that line the larynx (voice box).

Oral cancer

Oral cancer can start anywhere in the mouth. It includes the lips, tongue, gums, inside lining of the cheeks and lips, floor and roof of the mouth and behind the wisdom teeth.

Thyroid cancer

The thyroid is a small gland in the neck. The first symptom of thyroid cancer is usually a painless lump in the front of your neck, which slowly gets bigger.

Need to know

Symptoms of head and neck cancer may include:

  • persistent mouth ulcers
  • pain when swallowing or chewing and/or trouble swallowing
  • persistent sore throat and/or earache affecting one side of the body
  • a lump or swelling in the neck or mouth
  • difficulty speaking or breathing
  • tooth loss
  • pain of the upper jaw or face
  • a continuing sore throat and/or blocked nose or nose bleeds
  • changes or difficulty in hearing
  • red or white areas that form on the tongue or lining of the mouth
  • swelling of singular or multiple lymph nodes

There are many other reasons that can cause these symptoms. However, it is important that you visit your consultant for screening as soon as symptoms appear.

We offer a number of investigations and tests to confirm a diagnosis of head and neck cancer, including:

  • blood tests
  • biopsies
  • fine needle aspiration cytology
  • scans such as OPG X-ray, CT, MRI and PET

If you are diagnosed with head and neck cancer you will have immediate access to our world-class consultants and state-of-the-art facilities.

Your consultant will talk you through your treatment options, which may include:

  • surgery
  • chemotherapy
  • radiotherapy
  • molecular profiling

Your consultant will work closely with other leading specialists as part of a multidisciplinary team to design a treatment plan based on your specific type of head and neck cancer.

Patient Stories

Robert's story

Robert, who encountered a persistent sore throat on holiday that revealed his diagnosis of tongue cancer. He shares his experience as a patient with us at The Harley Street Clinic.

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.