Living with Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
A cancer that starts in the lining of the mouth, nose, or throat and can cause sores, pain, or trouble swallowing.
Understanding Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
It starts in squamous cells, which are found in the outer skin layer and in mucous membranes. It is grouped by where it grows: the mouth, the middle or upper throat, the nose and sinuses, the voicebox, or the lower throat. It can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes or lungs.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms depend on where the cancer is. GARD lists these:
- Patches or open sores in the mouth or throat
- Unusual bleeding or pain in the mouth
- Sinus congestion that does not clear
- Sore throat or earache
- Pain or trouble swallowing
- Hoarse voice or swollen lymph nodes
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Your doctor may refer you to a specialist who knows rare conditions.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- A doctor familiar with rare conditions, plus specialists as needed
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with Support for People with Oral and Head and Neck Cancer
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD doesn't describe a cause for this condition yet.
Also known as: craniocervical region squamous cell carcinoma; head and neck squamous cell carcinoma; hnscc; scchn; squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck; squamous cell carcinoma, head and neck, somatic
Patient organizations
- Support for People with Oral and Head and Neck CancerSquamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
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