Head and Neck Cancer

Question 1

Red flags for head and neck cancer

Answer 1

• Hoarseness for >6 weeks
• Ulceratin or swellings of the oral mucosa >3 weeks
• Red and white patches in the oral mucosa
• Dysphagia
• Persistent unilateral nasal obstruction especially if accompanied with purulent discharge
• Neck masses of >3 weeks duration
• Cranial nerve involvement
• Persistent unilateral otalgia with normal otoscopy

Question 2

Associated factors

Answer 2

• Smoking
• Alcohol use
• Weight loss
• Night sweats
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Previous malignancy
• Previous radiotherapy