There are three main types of head and neck cancer, which are named after the type of cell that the cancer starts in:^1,2

• Mucosal squamous cell carcinomas start in the squamous cells, or moist lining, of the mouth, nose, and throat, and account for around 9 in 10 head and neck cancers*
• Adenocarcinomas start in the glandular cells of the head and neck area
• Cutaneous carcinomas start in the skin of the head and neck area

*Cancer Council Australia. Understanding Head and Neck Cancer. September 2021.

Head and neck cancers can be associated with a number of different symptoms, which are usually specific to the type and location of the cancer. However, some general symptoms may include:^1,2

• Pain
• Swelling
• Hoarse voice
• Sore throat that doesn’t get better
• Constant coughing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Bad breath
• Unexplained weight loss

These symptoms can occur with conditions other than head and neck cancer. You should make an appointment with your GP or specialist for a check-up or to discuss any concerns or questions that you may have.^1,2

A range of tests may be performed to see if you have a head and neck cancer, including^3:

• Physical examination - Doctor checks the mouth, throat, nose, ears, neck, and lymph nodes, possibly using touch or simple tools.
• Endoscopy - A flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the nose to examine the nasal passages, throat, and voice box.
• Microlaryngoscopy - A detailed throat and voice box exam done under general anaesthetic using a laryngoscope and microscope.
• Biopsy - A sample of tissue or cells is taken from a suspicious area to check for cancer under a microscope.
• Imaging tests - Scans like CT, MRI, PET, X-rays or ultrasound create detailed images to locate tumours and guide biopsies or treatment.

Radiation therapy - Radiation therapy uses a controlled dose of radiation, usually in the form of x-rays, to destroy or damage the cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used as the main treatment for head and neck cancer or used together with other treatments to treat the cancer or help relieve symptoms.¹