Benign (non-cancer) and malignant (cancer) tumors of the head and neck require thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. Symptoms include a mass or lump in the head and neck area that persist longer than two weeks, prolonged hoarseness or pain (longer than two weeks), recent weight loss, ear pain, difficulty swallowing and loss of appetite. A history of tobacco and alcohol use is very important.

The initial evaluation involves a thorough history of the problem, as well as family history of similar problems and associated health disorders. The exam may involve fiberoptic evaluation with video documentation, biopsies, or fine-needle aspiration of the lesion. Further workup may require X-rays, endoscopy and biopsy in the operating room or CT-guided biopsy.

Treatment plans may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or a combined protocol in association with other specialists in the community.