Best Head and Neck Cancer Specialist in Parel
Head and Neck Cancer is the term used to describe a number of different malignant tumors that develop in or around the throat, larynx, nose, sinuses, and mouth. Dr Tushar Jadhav is the Best Head and Neck Cancer specialist in Parel.
Most head and neck cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. This type of cancer begins in the flat squamous cells that make up the thin layer of tissue on the surface of the structures in the Head and Neck. Directly beneath this lining, which is called the epithelium, some areas of the head and neck have a layer of moist tissue, called the mucosa. If a cancer is only found in the squamous layer of cells, it is called carcinoma in situ. If the cancer has grown beyond this cell layer and moved into the deeper tissue, then it is called invasive squamous cell carcinoma. If doctors cannot identify where the cancer began, it is called a cancer of unknown primary.
If a head and neck cancer starts in the salivary glands the tumor will usually be classified as an adenocarcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, or mucoepidermoid carcinoma.
Types of head and neck cancer
There are 5 main types of head and neck cancer, each named according to the part of the body where they develop. For more information about a specific type, visit the guide dedicated to that type of head and neck cancer on this same website.
Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer. The larynx is commonly called the voice box. This tube-shaped organ in the neck is important for breathing, talking, and swallowing. It is located at the top of the windpipe, or trachea. The hypopharynx is also called the gullet. It is the lower part of the throat that surrounds the larynx. Read more about laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer.
parelNasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer. The nasal cavity is the space just behind the nose where air passes on its way to the throat. The paranasal sinuses are the air-filled areas that surround the nasal cavity. Read more about nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer. Dr Tushar Jadhav is
There are 2 substances that greatly increase the risk of developing a head and neck cancer:
Tobacco. Tobacco use includes smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes; chewing tobacco; and using snuff. It is the single largest risk factor for head and neck cancer. Researchers estimate that 70% to 80% of head and neck cancers are linked to tobacco use, and the amount of tobacco use may affect prognosis, which is the chance of recovery. In addition, secondhand smoke may increase a person’s risk of developing head and neck cancer.
Alcohol. Frequent and heavy alcohol consumption raises the risk of developing cancer in the mouth, pharynx, larynx, and esophagus.
Using alcohol and tobacco together increases this risk even more.
Other factors that can raise a person’s risk of developing head and neck cancer include:
Prolonged sun exposure. This is especially linked to cancer in the lip area, as well as skin cancer of the head and neck.
Age. People over the age of 40 are at higher risk for head and neck cancer.
Poor oral and dental hygiene. Poor care of the mouth and teeth may increase the risk of head and neck cancer.
Environmental or occupational inhalants. Inhaling asbestos, wood dust, paint fumes, and certain chemicals may increase a person’s risk of head and neck cancer.
Marijuana. Research suggests that people who have used marijuana may be at higher risk for head and neck cancer.
Poor nutrition. A diet low in vitamins A and B can raise a person’s risk of head and neck cancer.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD). Reflux of stomach acid into the upper airway and throat may be associated with the development of head and neck cancer.
Weakened immune system. A weakened immune system can raise a person’s risk of head and neck cancer.
Exposure to radiation. Exposure to radiation is associated with salivary gland cancer.
Previous history of head and neck cancer. People who have had 1 head and neck cancer have a higher chance of developing another head and neck cancer in the future.
Prevention
Different factors cause different types of cancer. Researchers continue to look into what factors cause this type of cancer, including ways to prevent it. Although there is no proven way to completely prevent this disease, you may be able to lower your risk. Talk with your health care team for more information about your personal risk of cancer.
Stopping the use of all tobacco products is the most important thing a person can do to reduce their risk, even for people who have been smoking for many years. Other steps that can reduce the risk of head and neck cancer include:
Avoiding alcohol
Discussing marijuana as a risk factor with your doctor and avoiding marijuana use
Using sunscreen regularly, including lip balm with an adequate sun protection factor (SPF)
Reducing your risk of HPV infection is also important. The HPV vaccine Gardasil is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for prevention of certain types of head and neck cancer. Limiting your number of sexual partners can also reduce your risk of HPV. Using a condom during sex cannot fully protect you from HPV.
Maintaining proper care of dentures. Poorly fitting dentures can trap tobacco and alcohol’s cancer-causing substances. People who wear dentures should have their dentures evaluated by a dentist at least every 5 years to ensure a good fit. Dentures should be removed every night and cleaned and rinsed thoroughly every day.
The next section in this guide is Screening. It explains how tests may find cancer before signs or symptoms appear. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.
Head and Neck Cancer - Screening
Screening is used to look for cancer before you have any symptoms or signs. Scientists have developed, and continue to develop, tests that can be used to screen a person for specific types of cancer. The overall goals of cancer screening are to:
Lower the number of people who die from the disease, or eliminate deaths from cancer altogether
Lower the number of people who develop the disease
Screening information for head and neck cancer
People who routinely drink alcohol, currently use tobacco products, or have used tobacco products in the past should receive general health screening examination at least once a year. This is a simple, quick procedure in which the doctor looks in the nose, mouth, and throat for abnormalities and feels for lumps in the neck. If anything unusual is found, the doctor will recommend a more extensive examination using 1 or more of the procedures described in the Diagnosis section.
If cancer is diagnosed, relieving symptoms remains an important part of cancer care and treatment. This may be called palliative care or supportive care. It is often started soon after diagnosis and continued throughout treatment. Be sure to talk with your health care team about the symptoms you experience, including any new symptoms or a change in symptoms.
Head and Neck Cancer - Diagnosis
Doctors use many tests to find, or diagnose, cancer. They also do tests to learn if cancer has spread to another part of the body from where it started. If this happens, it is called metastasis. For example, imaging tests can show if the cancer has spread. Imaging tests show pictures of the inside of the body. Doctors may also do tests to learn which treatments could work best.
For most types of cancer, a biopsy is the only sure way for the doctor to know if an area of the body has cancer. In a biopsy, the doctor takes a small sample of tissue for testing in a laboratory. If a biopsy is not possible, the doctor may suggest other tests that will help make a diagnosis.
Head and Neck Cancer - Types of Treatment
This section explains the types of treatments that are the standard of care for head and neck cancer. “Standard of care” means the best treatments known. When making treatment plan decisions, you are encouraged to consider clinical trials as an option. A clinical trial is a research study that tests a new approach to treatment. Doctors want to learn whether the new treatment is safe, effective, and possibly better than the standard treatment. Clinical trials can test a new drug, a new combination of standard treatments, or new doses of standard drugs or other treatments. Clinical trials are an option to consider for treatment and care for all stages of cancer. Your doctor can help you consider all your treatment options.
How head and neck cancer is treated
Many cancers of the head and neck can be cured, especially if they are found early. Although eliminating the cancer is the primary goal of treatment, preserving the function of the nearby nerves, organs, and tissues is also very important. When planning treatment, doctors consider how treatment might affect a person’s quality of life, such as how a person feels, looks, talks, eats, and breathes. Dr Tushar Jadhav is
The common types of treatments used for head and neck cancer are described below. Your care plan may also include treatment for symptoms and side effects, an important part of cancer care.
Overall, the main treatment options are surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Surgery or radiation therapy by themselves or a combination of these treatments may be part of the treatment plan. More treatment details can be found each specific cancer type section. See the Introduction for a complete list of different types of head and neck cancer.
Treatment options and recommendations depend on several factors, including the type and stage of head and neck cancer, possible side effects, and the patient’s preferences and overall health. Take time to learn about all of your treatment options and be sure to ask questions about things that are unclear. Talk with your doctor about the goals of each treatment and what you can expect while receiving the treatment. These types of talks are called “shared decision-making.” Shared decision-making is when you and your doctors work together to choose treatments that fit the goals of your care. Shared decision-making is particularly important for head and neck cancer because there are different treatment options. Learn more about making treatment decisions.
Surgery
During surgery, the goal is to remove the cancerous tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue during an operation. Types of surgery for head and neck cancer include:
Laser technology. This may be used to treat an early-stage tumor, especially if it was found in the larynx.
Excision. This is an operation to remove the cancerous tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue, known as a margin.
Lymph node dissection or neck dissection. If the doctor suspects the cancer has spread, the doctor may remove lymph nodes in the neck. This may be done at the same time as an excision.
Reconstructive (plastic) surgery. If cancer surgery requires major tissue removal, such as removing the jaw, skin, pharynx, or tongue, reconstructive or plastic surgery may be done to replace the missing tissue. This type of operation helps restore a person’s appearance and the function of the affected area. For example, a prosthodontist may be able to make an artificial dental or facial part to help restore the ability to swallow and speak. A speech pathologist may then be needed to help the patient relearn how to swallow and communicate using new techniques or special equipment. Learn more about reconstructive surgery.
Depending on the location, stage, and type of the cancer, some people may need more than 1 operation. Sometimes, it is not possible to completely remove the cancer, and additional treatments may be necessary. For example, surgery may be followed by radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or both to destroy cancer cells that cannot be removed during surgery.
Side effects of surgery
Side effects of surgery depend on the type and location of the surgery. Every patient is encouraged to talk with their doctor about the side effects expected from a specific surgery and how long the side effects are likely to last. Common side effects from head and neck surgery include temporary or permanent loss of normal voice, impaired speech, and hearing loss. People often have difficulty chewing or swallowing after cancer surgery, which may require a tube inserted in the stomach for feeding purposes. If lymph nodes were removed, there may be stiffness in the shoulders afterward. In addition, lymphedema can occur. After a total laryngectomy, which is the removal of the larynx, people may have decreased thyroid gland function that will need to be managed, such as by taking thyroid hormone medication. Dr Tushar Jadhav is
Another potential side effect is swelling of the mouth and throat area, making it difficult to breathe. If this side effect develops, patients may receive a temporary tracheostomy, which creates a hole in the windpipe to make breathing easier.
Some people experience facial disfigurement from surgery. Reconstructive surgery (see above) may be recommended to help appearance or maintain important functions, such as chewing, swallowing, and breathing. Patients should meet with different members of the health care team to help them make decisions about their treatment and understand the recovery process.Programs that help patients adjust to changes in body image may be useful both before and after the surgery. Talking with your doctor about what to expect and how recovery will be handled can help you cope.
Before surgery, talk with your health care team about the possible side effects from the specific surgery you will have. Learn more about the basics of cancer surgery.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy is the use of high-energy x-rays or other particles to destroy cancer cells. A radiation therapy regimen, or schedule, usually consists of a specific number of treatments given over a set period of time. Radiation therapy may be used in different ways to treat head and neck cancers, including to help cure the disease or lessen the symptoms of cancer and its treatment. It can be used on its own or in combination or in sequence with other treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy.
The most common type of radiation therapy is called external-beam radiation therapy, which is radiation given from a machine outside the body. A specific type of external-beam radiation therapy is called intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). IMRT uses advanced technology to accurately direct the beams of radiation at the tumor. This helps reduce damage to nearby healthy cells, potentially causing fewer side effects.
Proton therapy is another type of external-beam radiation therapy that uses protons rather than x-rays. At this time, proton therapy is not a standard treatment option for most types of head and neck cancer, but it may be used more in the future to treat these types of cancer as technology changes. See the Latest Research section for more information.
Therapies using medication
Treatments using medication are used to destroy cancer cells. Medication may be given through the bloodstream to reach cancer cells throughout the body. When a drug is given this way, it is called systemic therapy. Medication may also be given locally, which is when the medication is applied directly to the cancer or kept in a single part of the body.
This type of medication is generally prescribed by a medical oncologist, a doctor who specializes in treating cancer with medication. Medications are often given through an intravenous (IV) tube placed into a vein using a needle or as a pill or capsule that is swallowed (orally). If you are given oral medications, be sure to ask your health care team about how to safely store and handle it. Dr Tushar Jadhav is
The types of medications used for head and neck cancer include:
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
Each of these types of therapies is discussed below in more detail. A person may receive 1 type of medication at a time or a combination of medications given at the same time. They can also be given as part of a treatment plan that includes surgery and/or radiation therapy.
The medications used to treat cancer are continually being evaluated. Talking with your doctor is often the best way to learn about the medications prescribed for you, their purpose, and their potential side effects or interactions with other medications. It is also important to let your doctor know if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications or supplements. Herbs, supplements, and other drugs can interact with cancer medications, causing unwanted side effects or reduced effectiveness. Learn more about your prescriptions by using searchable drug databases.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells, usually by keeping the cancer cells from growing, dividing, and making more cells.
A chemotherapy regimen, or schedule, usually consists of a specific number of cycles given over a set period of time. A patient may receive 1 drug at a time or a combination of different drugs given at the same time.
The side effects of chemotherapy depend on the individual and the dose used, but they can include fatigue, risk of infection, nausea and vomiting, hair loss, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. These side effects usually go away after treatment is finished.
Targeted therapy
Targeted therapy is a treatment that targets the cancer’s specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to cancer growth and survival. This type of treatment blocks the growth and spread of cancer cells and limits damage to healthy cells.
Not all tumors have the same targets. To find the most effective treatment, your doctor may run tests to identify the genes, proteins, and other factors in your tumor. This helps doctors better match each patient with the most effective treatment whenever possible. In addition, research studies continue to find out more about specific molecular targets and new treatments directed at them.
EGFR inhibitors. For head and neck cancers, treatments that target a tumor protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) may be recommended. Researchers have found that drugs that block EGFR help stop or slow the growth of certain types of head and neck cancer.
Tumor-agnostic therapy. Larotrectinib (Vitrakvi) is a type of targeted therapy that is not specific to a certain type of cancer but focuses on a specific genetic change in NTRK genes. This type of genetic change is uncommon but does occur in a range of cancers, including head and neck cancer. Larotrectinib is approved as a treatment for head and neck cancer that is metastatic or cannot be removed with surgery and has worsened with other treatments.
Talk with your doctor about possible side effects for a specific medication and how they can be prevented or managed. Learn more about the basics of targeted treatments.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy, also called biologic therapy, is designed to boost the body's natural defenses to fight the cancer. It uses materials made either by the body or in a laboratory to improve, target, or restore immune system function.
Different types of immunotherapy can cause different side effects. Common side effects include skin reactions, flu-like symptoms, diarrhea, and weight changes. Talk with your doctor about possible side effects for the immunotherapy recommended for you. Learn more about the basics of immunotherapy.
Physical, emotional, and social effects of cancer
Cancer and its treatment cause physical symptoms and side effects, as well as emotional, social, and financial effects. Managing all of these effects is called palliative care or supportive care. It is an important part of your care that is included along with treatments intended to slow, stop, or eliminate the cancer.
Palliative care focuses on improving how you feel during treatment by managing symptoms and supporting patients and their families with other, non-medical needs. Any person, regardless of age or type and stage of cancer, may receive this type of care. And it often works best when it is started right after a cancer diagnosis. People who receive palliative care along with treatment for the cancer often have less severe symptoms, better quality of life, and report that they are more satisfied with treatment.
Palliative treatments vary widely and often include medication, nutritional changes, relaxation techniques, emotional and spiritual support, and other therapies. You may also receive palliative treatments similar to those meant to get rid of the cancer, such as chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation therapy.
Before treatment begins, talk with your doctor about the goals of each treatment in the treatment plan being recommended. You should also talk about the possible side effects of the specific treatment plan and palliative care options. Many patients also benefit from talking with a social worker and participating in support groups. Ask your doctor about these resources, too.
During treatment, your health care team may ask you to answer questions about your symptoms and side effects and to describe each problem. Be sure to tell the health care team if you are experiencing a problem. This helps the health care team treat any symptoms and side effects as quickly as possible. It can also help prevent more serious problems in the future.
Looking for a Head and Neck Cancer Specialist in Vashi?
Dr. Tushar Jadhav provides specialist care for head and neck cancers, with a focus on evaluation, surgical treatment, and ongoing cancer care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Radiation Therapy and Surgical Oncology
What is radiation therapy for head and neck cancer?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. For head and neck cancers, it may be recommended as the main treatment for certain cancers, after surgery, or together with other treatments depending on the type and stage of cancer.
When is radiation therapy recommended for head and neck cancer?
Radiation therapy may be recommended depending on the location, type and stage of the cancer. It may be used before or after surgery, in combination with chemotherapy, or as part of treatment for cancers that cannot be treated with surgery alone. The treatment plan is decided after evaluating the individual patient's condition.
What are the common side effects of radiation therapy?
Side effects can vary depending on the area being treated and the radiation dose. Some patients may experience mouth soreness, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, changes in taste, skin irritation, fatigue or changes in voice. The healthcare team can provide treatment and supportive measures to help manage these effects.
What is a surgical oncologist?
A surgical oncologist is a doctor who specializes in using surgery as part of cancer treatment. Surgical oncology may involve removing a cancerous tumor, nearby tissues or affected lymph nodes when surgery is appropriate for the patient's cancer.
When is surgery used to treat head and neck cancer?
Surgery may be considered when the cancer can be safely removed. The type of surgery depends on where the tumor is located, its size and stage, and whether nearby tissues or lymph nodes are involved. Surgery may sometimes be combined with radiation therapy, chemotherapy or other cancer treatments.
What types of surgery may be performed for head and neck cancer?
Depending on the location and extent of the cancer, surgery may involve removal of the primary tumor, neck dissection to remove affected lymph nodes, or reconstructive surgery when significant tissue needs to be removed. The appropriate procedure is determined after detailed evaluation and imaging.
Can head and neck cancer surgery affect speech or swallowing?
Some head and neck cancer surgeries can affect speech, swallowing, chewing or other functions depending on the area treated. Rehabilitation, including speech and swallowing therapy, may be recommended to help patients recover and adapt after treatment.
Can radiation therapy and surgery be used together?
Yes. For some head and neck cancers, surgery and radiation therapy may both be included in the treatment plan. Radiation therapy may be given after surgery when additional treatment is considered necessary based on factors such as the tumor characteristics and lymph node involvement.
How is the treatment plan decided by a surgical oncologist?
Treatment planning considers the type and stage of cancer, tumor location, imaging and biopsy results, overall health and the patient's individual needs. In many cases, cancer care involves coordination between surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology and other specialists.
When should I consult a head and neck surgical oncologist?
You should consider an evaluation if you have a persistent lump in the neck, a mouth or throat sore that does not heal, persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, unexplained bleeding or other unusual symptoms. Patients already diagnosed with head and neck cancer may also require a surgical oncology consultation to discuss whether surgery is appropriate.
Does every head and neck cancer require surgery?
No. Treatment depends on the type, location and stage of cancer. Some cancers may be treated primarily with radiation therapy, medication or a combination of treatments, while others may require surgery. A specialist evaluation is necessary to determine the appropriate treatment approach.
Why is follow-up important after cancer treatment?
Regular follow-up helps monitor recovery, manage treatment-related side effects and check for any signs of recurrence. Follow-up care may include physical examinations, imaging or other tests depending on the patient's cancer history and treatment.
Head & Neck Surgical Oncologist in Parel, Mumbai
Dr. Tushar Jadhav provides evaluation and surgical oncology care for patients with head and neck cancers in Parel, Mumbai. Treatment recommendations are individualized according to the diagnosis, stage of cancer, clinical findings and overall healthcare needs.
If you have been diagnosed with head and neck cancer or need evaluation for a suspected cancer, consult a qualified surgical oncologist to understand the available treatment options and next steps.