Head and Neck Cancer

Expert treatment for head, neck and throat cancers in San Diego

A mature multi-ethnic man stands near a busy street, representing head and neck cancer treatment at Scripps Cancer Center.

Expert treatment for head, neck and throat cancers in San Diego

Scripps Cancer Center specialists diagnose and treat head and neck cancer with expertise, compassion and a multidisciplinary team approach to care. Our physicians include surgeons, radiation oncologists, oncologists, palliative care specialists, cancer internists and other specialists such as speech pathologists, dieticians, social workers and oncology nurses.

 

We treat tumors related to cancers of the mouth, tongue, lips, throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), nasal cavity, sinuses and thyroid gland. Our head and neck cancer doctors also treat advanced skin cancers of the face and neck, such as malignant melanoma. 


Our physicians use advanced precision medical diagnostics that ensure patients receive personalized and leading-edge treatment methods. 

Your multidisciplinary head and neck oncology team

Optimal care for patients with head and neck tumors requires the type of multidisciplinary care that is the foundation of Scripps Cancer Center. Our collaborative board of cancer specialists reviews every patient’s complex care plan to ensure they receive care that is precisely personalized to their needs, from diagnosis through treatment and into recovery and survivorship.


The surgery team includes both ablative and reconstruction specialists. The ablative team surgically removes the tumor using Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS), while the reconstruction team performs a variety of plastic surgery procedures through advanced microvascular reconstruction techniques. 


Our radiation oncologists use state-of-the-art linear accelerators for precision guided radiation therapy. The oncology team provides the most effective chemotherapy and immunotherapy medications. 


Because of the complexity of head and neck tumors, our patients may often require support services from social workers, cancer nutritionists, nurse navigators, pharmacists, palliative care specialists and many other team members highly experienced in the unique needs of head and neck cancer patients. 


Learn more about your cancer care team and Scripps' multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Types of head and neck cancer

Scripps Cancer Center treats head and neck cancers with a variety of therapies. Oncologists personalize treatment based on the cancer type, stage, medical history and the patient’s overall health with a strong focus on current National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines to guide therapy. 

Laryngeal cancer

Laryngeal cancer and hypopharyngeal cancer start in the throat and are commonly referred to as throat cancer. They begin in or around the larynx, or voice box, which is needed for speaking, breathing and swallowing.

 

Throat cancer symptoms include a constant sore throat or cough, difficult or painful swallowing, or a lump in the neck. Treatment depends on the location and stage of cancer and may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or a combination of these. Learn more about laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer.

Metastatic squamous neck cancer with occult primary

Commonly known as neck cancer, metastatic squamous neck cancer with occult primary develops when squamous cell cancer that starts elsewhere in the body spreads to lymph nodes in the neck.

 

The main symptoms of neck cancer are a lump or pain in the neck area. Treatment typically includes surgery, radiation therapy or both. Learn more about neck cancer.

Mouth cancer

Mouth cancer begins in the mouth or throat and includes lip cancer, oral cavity cancer, salivary gland cancer and oropharyngeal cancer. Tobacco use is the main risk factor for mouth cancer.


Mouth cancer symptoms include persistent pain or sores in the mouth, white or red patches in the mouth, problems chewing or swallowing, and numbness or swelling. Treatment typically involves surgery, and may include radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Learn more about mouth cancer.

Nasopharyngeal cancer

Nasopharyngeal cancer is a rare cancer that develops in the upper throat behind the nose (nasopharynx). There are several types of nasopharyngeal cancer, and treatment plans depend on the type and stage of the cancer. Because of the tumor’s location, surgery is difficult. In most cases, treatment involves a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Learn more about nasopharyngeal cancer.

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer begins in the thyroid gland in the front of the neck. About 75% of thyroid cancers occur in women, and women tend to be diagnosed at a younger age than men. A family history of thyroid cancer can increase the risk.


Thyroid cancer treatment usually involves surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland. Radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy may be used to destroy cancer cells that were not removed during surgery. Thyroid hormone therapy may be part of the treatment plan to control hormone levels. Learn more about thyroid cancer.

Advanced cancer treatment options

Our comprehensive approach combines our multidisciplinary teams with tools to diagnose and treat cancer — including many leading-edge therapies — to focus on your individual needs. 


  • Precise surgical capabilities, including minimally invasive robot-assisted and laser procedures that can mean fewer incisions and faster recovery.
  • Infusion centers that provide the latest chemotherapies and immunotherapies, reducing side effects such as nausea and hair loss, in comfortable, soothing environments.
  • Wide range of advanced internal and external radiation therapy methods to target tumors while protecting surrounding healthy tissues. 
  • Nutrition support – registered dieticians and nutritional consultants with specific expertise in working with patients with cancer. 
  • Integrative therapies especially for cancer patients, including yoga and meditation, at Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine.

Head and neck cancer treatment locations

Scripps Cancer Center diagnoses and treats patients at numerous locations throughout San Diego County. From Chula Vista and La Jolla to Encinitas and beyond, our extensive network of Southern California cancer care centers includes:


• Four Scripps hospitals on five campuses

• Multiple outpatient clinics

• Specialty cancer treatment centers – Scripps Cancer Center, John J Hopkins, Prebys Cancer Center


For more details on specific centers and their services, visit cancer care locations.

Support groups, services and resources

Scripps offers a comprehensive lineup of support groups, support services and resources to help you along every step of your cancer journey.

Support groups for patients, family members and survivors

In support of our patients, survivors, their family members, and the community, we host cancer support groups as well as a range of free workshops and health and wellness events on a number of topics, such as:


  • Nutrition
  • Yoga
  • Meditation


Check the current list of support offerings or contact your oncology social worker or cancer care coordinator.

Support services for cancer patients

We are here for you — not only as your oncologists, but as a robust multidisciplinary team of experts who understands that your cancer journey is about much more than your medical treatment. Specifically, Scripps Cancer Center offers a variety of patient support services to ensure your physical, psychological and emotional well-being as well as resources for dealing with the logistical and financial aspects of cancer care. Our services and resources include:


  • Oncology nurses and nurse navigators with extensive clinical expertise in cancer care to help guide you and your caregivers to make informed decisions and ensure your optimal care.
  • Palliative care to provide an extra layer of supportive care to manage pain and relieve symptoms, offer emotional and spiritual support, and improve your quality of life. 
  • Oncology social workers specially trained to provide counseling, connect you with community and medical resources, assist with transportation and housing and coordinate care after discharge.
  • Our registered dietitian nutritionists offer individualized nutrition support for patients whose efforts to optimize their nutrition may be affected by cancer symptoms or treatment side effects.
  • Referrals and professional care from experts in psychology, psychiatry and emotional health, including individual and family counseling to help with the emotional challenges of cancer.
  • Physical rehabilitation and occupational therapy services, including wound care, voice therapy and swallowing therapy, lymphedema therapy, balance and vestibular rehabilitation, yoga and more.
  • Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine for patients interested in mind-body healing through acupuncture, biofeedback, herbal nutrition, massage therapy, integrative cancer care and more.
  • Nondenominational spiritual care offered by our chaplains to help coordinate spiritual care with your own clergy, rabbi or spiritual advisor.
  • Visiting patient services if you reside beyond San Diego and want help arranging appointments or learning more about short-term lodging.


For the full spectrum of offerings, please visit our cancer patient support services section.

Additional resources for patients, caregivers and family members

Patient education is an integral part of understanding and coping with your cancer diagnosis and treatment. To stay informed, we encourage our patients, along with their caregivers and family members, to:


  • Bookmark the Scripps glossary of cancer terms for easy referencing.
  • Consult your oncology team for educational materials and a list of trusted online sources beyond the Scripps site. 


Navigating cancer might seem overwhelming — especially with so much information online. To ensure you receive the most accurate details, always look to your multidisciplinary team of cancer care experts first.