What it means
A group of cancers, most of them squamous cell carcinomas of the lining of the mouth and throat. The main risks are tobacco and alcohol use and infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), which now causes many throat cancers. Treatment may combine surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, and can affect breathing, eating, swallowing and speech.
For the nurse
After treatment, watch the airway, swallowing and nutrition closely, give mouth care, and support the client with changes in speech and appearance. Teach the client to stop smoking and drinking, and teach HPV vaccination for young people.
At a glance
| Also written | head and neck cancers |
|---|
Related terms
dysphagia
Difficulty swallowing.
hoarseness
A rough, strained or breathy voice that is harder to make or sounds different from normal.
cisplatin
A platinum-based cancer drug given by IV that damages the DNA of cancer cells.
fluorouracil
A cancer drug that blocks DNA building in fast-growing cells, given by IV or used as a skin cream.