What is the survival rate for tonsil cancer?

As with most cancers, treatment is most successful when the condition is detected and treated in the early stages. Tonsil cancer that’s related to HPV has an overall survival rate of 85% to 90%. That means that 8.5 to 9 people out of 10 who are diagnosed with tonsil cancer are still alive in five years.

What are signs of tonsil cancer?

The symptoms of tonsil cancer include:

• A sore in the back of the mouth that will not heal.
• A tonsil that is larger on one side.
• Blood in the saliva.
• Mouth pain.
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking.
• Persistent sore throat.
• Intolerance to eating or drinking citrus foods.
• Severe ear pain.

Can you be cured from tonsillar cancer?

Early-stage tonsil cancer that has not spread outside of the tonsil can be treated and possibly even cured. When tonsil cancer spreads to the lymph nodes, it can travel from there to other parts of your body.

What causes tonsillar cancer?

The main cause of tonsil cancer in the United States is prior infection with HPV. Smoking and chewing tobacco as well as heavy alcohol use are also common risk factors for tonsil cancer. Having previously had your tonsils removed does not eliminate your risk for tonsil cancer.

Where does tonsil cancer usually spread?

The carcinoma of tonsil usually spreads through the cervical lymph node levels II, III, IV, V, and retropharyngeal lymph nodes.

Can a doctor see tonsil cancer?

Tests and procedures used to diagnose tonsil cancer include: Examining your throat and neck. Your doctor will use a mirror or tiny camera to examine your mouth and throat. The doctor may use his or her hands to feel your neck to check for enlarged lymph nodes.

How long is chemo for tonsil cancer?

Common schedules of chemo cycles can be once a week, once every 3 weeks, or once every 4 weeks. The schedule depends on the drugs used. The chemo schedule repeats to start the next cycle. Adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemo is often given for a total of 3 to 6 months, depending on the drugs used.

Is tonsil cancer the same as throat cancer?

Tonsil cancer is classified as head and neck cancer, throat cancer, and oropharynx cancer. Tonsil cancer can develop even in people who’ve had their tonsils removed because a small piece of tonsil tissue may be left behind.

Where does tonsil cancer start?

Tonsil cancer begins when cancerous cells develop in the tonsils. It can occur in people who have had their tonsils removed, as some tonsil tissue often remains after surgery. Most tonsil cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, but some are lymphomas. Drinking alcohol, smoking, and having HPV appear to increase the risk.