Head and Neck Cancer

Question 1

What are 3 divisions of Head and neck cancer?

Answer 1

Oral
Laryngeal
Head and neck

Question 2

List 5-8 modifiable risk factors for H+N cancer?

Answer 2

Tobacco 
Alcohol
Sun exposure (UV light)
Poor nutrition
Immune compromised patients
Infection- HPV virus
Previous cancer diagnosis
PPOELs

Question 3

What are the NICAN Guidelines relating signs/symptoms for urgent referral for H+N cancer?

Answer 3

Unexplained lump in the neck of recent onset
Change in previously diagnosed lump
Persistent swelling of parotid/submandibular glands
Hoarseness > 3 weeks
Unexplained persistant sore throat
Unexplained unilateral head/neck pain for > 4 weeks

Question 4

What is the patient pathway for H+N cancer?

Answer 4

History
Examination
Investigations
Staging
Multidisciplinary team
Treatment and management plan
Surveillance

Question 5

What are the four types of prognosis for the patient

Answer 5

Curable
Potentially curable
Incurable- active palliation
Incurable- symptomatic treatment

Question 6

What are the 5 options for treatment of H+N cancer?

Answer 6

Surgery
Radiotherapy
Chemotherapy
Palliation
No treatment

Question 7

what are the signs and symptoms for Laryngeal cancer?

Answer 7

Change in voice (persistent hoarseness)
Odynophagia, dysphagia 
Lump or swelling in the neck
Long-lasting cough or dyspnoea 
Persistent sore throat or earache
High pitched wheezing when breathing

Question 8

List 3 non-modifiable risk factors for H+N cancer

Answer 8

Age >55years
Male > female
Family history