When you visit a ChicagoENT head and neck surgeon, our doctors will ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam of the mouth, neck, and/or throat depending on where the cancer is suspected.
In addition to the history, physical exam, and blood tests, several tests may be done to diagnose head and neck cancer. Imaging tests allow the doctor to determine the size, shape and location of the tumor, its relation to other tissues in the head or neck and whether it has spread to other organs in your body.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan—a series of detailed x-ray pictures, often using a dye to more clearly show the area
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan—a magnet, radio waves, and a computer are used to create a series of detailed images of the inside of the body
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scan—a small amount of radioactive glucose (sugar) is injected into a vein and a scanner identifies areas where the glucose is taken up (cancerous cells take up more glucose than normal cells)
The doctor will also need to get some cells from the tumor to examine them under a microscope. The technique will be determined by the location of the tumor.
- Biopsy-removing cells to check them for cancer. This may be done in the office or in the operating room, depending on the location of the tumor and the amount of tissue necessary to make a diagnosis.
- Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy-a small sample of tissue or fluid is removed using a thin needle, and is examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells
- Laryngoscopy-a mirror or thin, lighted tube used to examine the larynx and take a biopsy.
- Endoscopy-a long, thin scope inserted through a small incision to view the area and take a biopsy
- Exfoliative cytology-cells are removed from the mouth using a piece of cotton or small brush, and then a lab technician then looks at the cells under a microscope to determine whether they are abnormal.
