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Head and Neck Cancer
Diagnosis. When patients experience symptoms that could point to head and neck cancer, their physician should initially take a complete medical history and perform a physical examination consisting of a visual and physical assessment of the oral and nasal cavities, neck, throat and/or tongue.
In addition, depending on the specific symptoms present, patients may also be asked to have x-rays taken of the affected area, or take part in other diagnostic tests such as the collection and study of blood and/or urine samples.
The Lacks Cancer Center offers a variety of advanced diagnostic tools that are capable of pinpointing with great precision any abnormal (cancerous) tissue. These technologies include:
Endoscopic Ultrasound
CT (or CAT) scan
PET/CT scan
Endoscopic Ultrasound
CT (or CAT) scan
PET/CT scan
Staging. Although there are many methods used in the diagnosis of head and neck cancer, biopsy (a tissue sample) is the only procedure that can confirm the presence of cancer. Once cancer is definitively diagnosed, it is essential to properly determine its size and spread (stage) so that the most effective treatment plan can be established.
Although x-rays and endoscopic ultrasounds are often administered, The Lacks Cancer Center is one of only two centers in West Michigan that provides a revolutionary PET/CT scan procedure for the most accurate staging of head and neck cancer. PET/CT scans are often used in radiation therapy treatment planning so that radiation oncologists can precisely target the tumor.
To consult with one of our oncologists, simply ask your primary care physician for a referral or make a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-685-LACK(S).
To consult with one of our oncologists, simply ask your primary care physician for a referral or make a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-685-LACK(S).