Pharyngeal Cancer
Oropharyngeal Cancer
The oropharynx includes the tonsils and tongue base. A share of its cancers are HPV-related and generally respond well to treatment.
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.
Read the full Pharyngeal Cancer guide
Frequently asked questions
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.
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.
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The practice is at Selenium Plaza in Beşiktaş. Message us on WhatsApp or call to arrange a visit. English-speaking patients are welcome.