Oropharyngeal cancer

Oropharyngeal cancer (OPC), also known as oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) and tonsil cancer, is a disease in which abnormal cells with the potential to both grow locally and spread to other parts of the body are found in the oral cavity, in the tissue of the part of the throat (oropharynx) that includes the base of the tongue, the tonsils, the soft palate, and the walls of the pharynx. The two types of oropharyngeal cancers are HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer, which is caused by an oral human papillomavirus infection; and HPV-negative oropharyngeal cancer, which is linked to use of alcohol, tobacco, or both. Oropharyngeal cancer is diagnosed by biopsy of observed abnormal tissue in the throat. OPC is staged according to the appearance of the abnormal cells on the biopsy coupled with the dimensions and the extent of the abnormal cells found. Treatment is with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy; or some combination of those treatments. The signs and symptoms of oropharyngeal cancer may include: A sore throat that persists for over 2 weeks Throat pain or difficulty swallowing Unexplained rapid weight loss Voice changes (more hoarse) Ear pain A lump in the back of the throat or mouth A lump in the neck A dull pain behind the sternum Persistent cough Breathing problems Hoarseness or other changes in the voice The risk factors that can increase the risk of developing oropharyngeal cancer are: Performing open-mouthed kissing or oral/mouth-genital sex on a person(s) with a human papillomavirus infection (HPV); there are nearly 200 distinct human papillomaviruses (HPVs), and many HPV types are carcinogenic. Smoking and chewing tobacco (see Health effects of tobacco); Heavy alcohol use (see Long-term effects of alcohol consumption). A diet low in fruits and vegetables; Chewing paan (betel quid), a stimulant commonly used in Southern and Southeast Asia; Marijuana smoking (see Effects of cannabis); Asbestos exposure (see Asbestos-related diseases); Certain genetic changes including: P53 mutation and CDKN2A (p16) mutations; Poor nutrition; Plummer–Vinson syndrome.