Treatment Areas
Pharyngeal (Throat) Cancer in Istanbul
A sore throat that will not pass, a catching sensation, pain radiating to the ear or a lump in the neck. The pharynx hides its complaints well, which is exactly why examination matters.
Symptoms and diagnosis
Pharyngeal cancers produce different complaints depending on the region involved. Disease of the oropharynx, which includes the tonsil and tongue base, or of the hypopharynx, the lower throat, can cause one-sided sore throat, swallowing difficulty, voice change or sometimes only an enlarged lymph node in the neck.
Diagnosis is made by endoscopic examination and biopsy, with MRI or CT for staging. A share of oropharyngeal cancers are HPV-related, which is taken into account in planning.
Treatment
Treatment is usually a team effort. Depending on the stage, radiotherapy, chemoradiotherapy or surgery may lead, and the plan is built together with the oncology team.
Where surgery is needed, preserving swallowing and speech stands at the centre of the plan. Structured follow-up, with swallowing rehabilitation where needed, is part of the process.
Frequently asked questions
A sore throat lasting beyond two or three weeks deserves examination, particularly if it is one-sided or radiates to the ear. The cause is usually benign, but a persisting complaint must be seen.
A share of oropharyngeal cancers are linked to the HPV virus and generally respond better to treatment. Your tumour's status is clarified by the pathology examination.
No. For a large share of pharyngeal cancers the first treatment is radiotherapy-based. Your plan is built on stage and tumour characteristics, with the whole team.
Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız, Professor of ENT and Head & Neck Surgery — August 2026 · About
Outcomes of surgical and medical procedures vary from person to person; please consult your physician for an assessment specific to you.
We are here for your questions
The practice is at Selenium Plaza in Beşiktaş. Message us on WhatsApp or call to arrange a visit. English-speaking patients are welcome.