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Head & Neck Cancer Biopsy

Head & Neck Cancer Biopsy

Head & Neck Cancer Biopsy is a diagnostic procedure performed to confirm the presence of cancerous or precancerous cells in abnormal growths, lumps, or ulcers affecting the oral cavity, throat, neck, or related structures. The biopsy helps determine the nature of the lesion — benign or malignant — and guides further treatment planning such as surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. Early diagnosis through biopsy plays a critical role in improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.

Symptoms

A biopsy is recommended if a patient presents with persistent or suspicious signs such as:

  • Non-healing ulcers or sores in the mouth or throat
  • Persistent lump or swelling in the neck or jaw area
  • Hoarseness or change in voice lasting more than two weeks
  • Difficulty swallowing or pain while swallowing
  • Unexplained bleeding or numbness in the mouth
  • Ear pain without ear disease
  • Weight loss or fatigue with no apparent cause

Causes

Head and neck cancers may develop due to a variety of risk factors. A biopsy helps confirm or rule out malignancy caused by:

  • Chronic tobacco and alcohol use
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
  • Chewing tobacco, betel nut, or paan
  • Prolonged sun exposure (lip cancer)
  • Radiation exposure to head and neck region
  • Chronic irritation or poor oral hygiene
  • Family history of head and neck cancer

Treatment / Procedure

The type of biopsy depends on the location and size of the lesion. The common types of Head & Neck Cancer Biopsies include:

  • Incisional Biopsy: Removal of a small portion of the suspicious tissue for microscopic examination.
  • Excisional Biopsy: Complete removal of a small lesion if it’s accessible and safe to excise entirely.
  • Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC): A minimally invasive test where a thin needle is used to extract cells from a lump or swelling for analysis.
  • Punch Biopsy: A circular blade is used to remove a sample of tissue — often used for skin or oral lesions.
  • Endoscopic Biopsy: Performed through the nose or mouth using an endoscope to reach deep areas of the throat, larynx, or nasal cavity.

The procedure is generally performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the site and complexity. The collected sample is sent to a pathology lab for histopathological examination, and results are typically available within a few days.

Benefits

  • Accurate diagnosis of cancerous or benign lesions
  • Helps determine the type, stage, and grade of cancer
  • Enables personalized treatment planning
  • Minimally invasive and safe diagnostic procedure
  • Early detection improves treatment success and survival
  • Helps avoid unnecessary or extensive surgeries if lesion is benign

Prevention / Post-Procedure Care

While biopsy itself is a diagnostic procedure, preventive care and follow-up after biopsy are important for recovery and further management:

  • Avoid smoking, tobacco, and alcohol use
  • Maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding wound care
  • Eat soft, non-spicy foods until healing is complete
  • Take prescribed antibiotics or pain relievers as directed
  • Monitor the biopsy site for bleeding or infection
  • Attend follow-up visits to discuss biopsy results and next treatment steps