

Texas Oncology is a leader in groundbreaking cancer research and clinical trials in Texas, paving the way for new breakthroughs in cancer care.
Texas Oncology specialists are equipped to diagnose head and neck cancer and may use the following tests:
This procedure uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside areas of the head and neck that are hard to see, such as the throat, voice box, and nasal passages. This helps doctors spot abnormal growths or tumors without making any cuts.
This medical procedure involves removing a small sample of tissue or cells from a suspicious area. The tissue is examined under a microscope for cancerous cells.
While not the standard for diagnosis, this test may be used to look for markers that suggest cancer might be present.
This imaging test enables doctors to create black and white pictures of the structures and organs in the chest and check whether the cancer had spread beyond its original location.
This procedure involves removing lymph nodes from the neck to check if cancer has spread. It also helps doctors determine the stage of cancer and plan treatment accordingly.
Head and neck cancer treatment is not one size fits all. That is why we personalize your treatment plan based on factors like cancer stage and location, medical history, general health, and treatment goals. Treatment for head and neck cancer may involve the following:
Using high-energy rays, this treatment damages or kills cancer cells to prevent them from growing or dividing.
Chemotherapy are medications administered through an IV and delivered to the entire body to shrink and kill cancer cells.
Surgery for head and neck cancer involves removing the tumor and nearby diseased tissue and lymph nodes. Depending on the cancer’s location and stage, surgery may also include removal of the voice box, throat, or salivary glands.
Harnesses the power of the immune system and targeted drugs to better recognize and attack cancer cells.
Trusted expertise
Our specialists trained at leading institutions across the country. They bring their extensive knowledge and experience to each patient.
Personalized attention
With our care team, you receive an individualized evaluation and care plan. We are with you and your loved ones at every step, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.
Experts close to home
We make it as easy as possible to access the care you need. With locations across the state, you are likely to find a provider near where you live and work.
Head and neck cancers originate in the throat, larynx (voice box), pharynx, salivary glands, or oral cavity (lips, mouth, or tongue). Most cases involve squamous cells, which line the mouth, throat, and other structures. Treating head and neck cancers requires a multidisciplinary approach. At Texas Oncology, our physicians specialize in diagnosing these cancers and collaborate to deliver high-quality care.
What sets Texas Oncology apart is our collaborative, patient-centered approach. With dozens of specialists and locations across the state, our patients receive world-class care close to home.
When you seek care with us, you can expect a personalized care plan, a dedicated team alongside you, and the latest advancements in cancer treatment, all designed to support you.
Our team of specialists treat a variety of cancers of the head and neck, including:
Hypopharyngeal Cancer
Cancer in the lower part of the throat (hypopharynx), where the throat meets the esophagus
Laryngeal Cancer
Cancer of the voicebox (larynx), which is located just below the throat and houses the vocal cords
Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer
Cancer affecting the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, roof, and floor of the mouth
Metastatic Squamous Neck Cancer
Squamous cell cancer found in neck lymph nodes, often with an unknown primary tumor in the head or neck
Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Cancer in the upper part of the throat (nasopharynx), located behind the nose
Oropharyngeal Cancer
Cancer in the middle part of the throat (oropharynx), including the tonsils and base of the tongue
Paranasal Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer
Cancer in the hollow spaces around the nose (sinuses) or inside the nasal cavity
Salivary Gland Cancer
Cancer in the glands that produce saliva, located near the jaw and throughout the mouth and throat
While the exact cause of rectal cancer is unknown, there are several risk factors that can influence the development of the disease:
Excessive alcohol and tobacco use
Heavy alcohol consumption or tobacco usage are associated with an increased risk of developing these cancers because the chemicals in them can destroy healthy cells that line the mouth, throat, and voice box.
Occupational exposure
Exposure to certain chemicals and synthetic fibers — such as asbestos, wood dust, nickel dust, or formaldehyde — is associated with a higher risk of nasopharyngeal, paranasal, and nasal cavity cancers.
Radiation exposure
Radiation exposure to the head and neck greatly increases a patient’s risk for cancer of the salivary glands.
While not all risk factors for head and neck cancer are preventable, there are some choices that can be made to lower a patient’s risk, like:
Texas Oncology specialists are equipped to diagnose head and neck cancer and may use the following tests:
This procedure uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside areas of the head and neck that are hard to see, such as the throat, voice box, and nasal passages. This helps doctors spot abnormal growths or tumors without making any cuts.
This medical procedure involves removing a small sample of tissue or cells from a suspicious area. The tissue is examined under a microscope for cancerous cells.
While not the standard for diagnosis, this test may be used to look for markers that suggest cancer might be present.
This imaging test enables doctors to create black and white pictures of the structures and organs in the chest and check whether the cancer had spread beyond its original location.
This procedure involves removing lymph nodes from the neck to check if cancer has spread. It also helps doctors determine the stage of cancer and plan treatment accordingly.
Head and neck cancer treatment is not one size fits all. That is why we personalize your treatment plan based on factors like cancer stage and location, medical history, general health, and treatment goals. Treatment for head and neck cancer may involve the following:
Using high-energy rays, this treatment damages or kills cancer cells to prevent them from growing or dividing.
Chemotherapy are medications administered through an IV and delivered to the entire body to shrink and kill cancer cells.
Surgery for head and neck cancer involves removing the tumor and nearby diseased tissue and lymph nodes. Depending on the cancer’s location and stage, surgery may also include removal of the voice box, throat, or salivary glands.
Harnesses the power of the immune system and targeted drugs to better recognize and attack cancer cells.
Trusted expertise
Our specialists trained at leading institutions across the country. They bring their extensive knowledge and experience to each patient.
Personalized attention
With our care team, you receive an individualized evaluation and care plan. We are with you and your loved ones at every step, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.
Experts close to home
We make it as easy as possible to access the care you need. With locations across the state, you are likely to find a provider near where you live and work.