Clinical Examination

Evaluation starts with a detailed history and a careful examination of the mouth, throat, nose, ears and neck, including feeling for enlarged lymph nodes. This simple step often points to where further tests are needed.

Endoscopy

A thin, flexible telescope with a light and camera is passed through the nose to see the nasal passages, back of the nose, throat and voice box. It is usually done in the clinic with local numbing spray and allows the doctor to see areas that cannot be seen by simply looking into the mouth.

Imaging

Imaging shows how far a disease has spread and helps plan treatment:

  • Ultrasound — useful for neck lumps and thyroid nodules
  • CT scan — shows bone involvement and the extent of disease
  • MRI — gives detailed views of soft tissues, the skull base and nerves
  • PET-CT — helps detect spread to lymph nodes or distant sites in selected cases

Biopsy

A biopsy — removing a small sample of tissue or drawing cells with a fine needle (FNAC) — is the only way to confirm cancer. Special tests on the sample, such as checking HPV-related markers in some throat cancers, can influence treatment decisions.

Key Point

No scan alone can confirm cancer. A biopsy is needed to establish the diagnosis before treatment begins.

Staging and Planning

Combining examination, imaging and biopsy results allows the disease to be staged. The findings are then usually discussed by a multidisciplinary team to agree on the best plan for the individual patient.

This article is general health information and is not a substitute for a personal consultation. If you have symptoms, please see a doctor.