What Is Tonsil Cancer

Tonsil cancer is an oncological condition where tonsil cells develop a genetic abnormality and begin to multiply uncontrollably, accumulating and forming a tumor in the tonsils, which are located in the back of the throat and are part of the body’s immune system to defend it against pathogens.

Although the origin of tonsil cancer is unknown, it has been discovered that it can be related to the human papillomavirus, since a high percentage of patients with this type of cancer also have this sexually transmitted disease.

Tonsil Cancer Causes

Tonsil cancer is a type of carcinoma that originates in the cells lining the tonsils and is generally part of oropharyngeal cancers. Its development is associated with well-established risk factors that affect throat tissue, especially in adults.

The main causes of tonsil cancer include:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, especially HPV-16.
• Tobacco use (cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco).
• Excessive alcohol consumption.
• Advanced age (more common in those over 50).
• Male gender (higher incidence in men).
• Weakened immune system.
• Poor oral hygiene and deficient dental health.
• Prolonged exposure to carcinogenic substances (such as asbestos or certain industrial chemicals).

Tonsil cancer can start with subtle symptoms that are often confused with throat infections. One of the first signs is a persistent pain on only one side of the throat, which does not improve with the use of antibiotics. There may also be pain or difficulty swallowing, a feeling of having something stuck, changes in the voice, and in some cases, mild bleeding in the mouth or throat.

As the cancer advances, a lump may appear in the neck due to swollen lymph nodes, one-sided ear pain, persistent bad breath, and unexplained weight loss. Sometimes, some people may experience jaw stiffness or difficulty opening their mouth completely.

How to Know if You Have Tonsil Cancer

If you have persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, a lump in the neck, or one-sided discomfort that does not improve, it is essential to see an otolaryngologist. This specialist can perform a detailed examination and, if necessary, order a biopsy or other types of studies for early detection.

Diagnosis begins with a detailed clinical examination of the neck, throat, and mouth, accompanied by the patient’s complete medical history. If the specialist suspects the presence of an abnormal lesion, they may perform an endoscopy to more precisely visualize the affected area.

A biopsy is required for a confirmatory diagnosis, which is obtained by taking a sample of the suspicious tissue and analyzing it in a laboratory.

Subsequently, imaging studies such as CT scan, MRI, or positron emission tomography (PET) scan will be requested to determine the extent of the cancer, its exact location, and to find out if it has spread to other areas.

The treatment for tonsil cancer will vary depending on the stage and size of the tumor, as well as the patient’s general condition.

In the early stages, surgery can be performed to remove the affected tonsil, as well as part of the surrounding tissue. This generally yields good results. In some cases, the removal of lymph nodes from the neck may be required.

For more advanced stages, or if surgery is not possible, radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy are used. If the cancer is related to HPV, it usually responds better to treatment. An emerging option for some advanced or recurrent cases is immunotherapy.

At the Cancer Center of Centro Médico ABC, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!