Tonsil cancer symptoms & treatment

The human body has three types of tonsils:

• Pharyngeal tonsil (adenoids) in the back of the throat
• Lingual tonsils on the base of the tongue
• Palatine tonsils on the sides of the throat

Tonsil cancer can affect any of the three types of tonsils, but it most often happens in the palatine tonsils. It is usually squamous cell cancer (cancer that only affects the top layer of the tissue), but it can also be a lymphoma (cancer that affects the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell).

Symptoms of tonsil cancer

Tonsil cancer symptoms are different for everyone. However, the first symptoms you notice may be a lump in your throat and a sore throat. Other potential symptoms of tonsil carcinoma may include:

• Bad breath
• Bloody or blood-tinged saliva
• Chronic sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
• Earache

Diagnosis of tonsil cancer

First, you’ll meet with your doctor for a physical exam. You’ll talk about your possible tonsil cancer symptoms and your doctor may order imaging tests such as X-rays, CT, MRI or PET scans. They may also perform a biopsy of the possible tonsil carcinoma, which includes taking a small sample of tissue for viewing under a microscope.

Treatment options for tonsil cancer

Tonsil cancer treatment depends upon whether or not it is diagnosed at an early or advanced stage. Depending on the stage, the cancer may require a combination of treatments. Treatment options for tonsil carcinoma include radiation therapy, chemotherapy and robotic surgery.

Your Aurora care team, including head and neck cancer specialists, will tailor a treatment plan for your unique needs.