Why Choose Us for Oropharyngeal Cancer Care
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, you receive expert, multidisciplinary care for oropharyngeal cancer through our Head and Neck Cancer Care Team. Your care team includes surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, and supportive care specialists. We work together to create a comprehensive treatment plan focused on your needs and goals. Our approach balances tumor control with preservation of function to help you achieve the best possible outcome while maintaining your quality of life.
“I've been lucky. I was sent to the Huntsman Cancer Institute, where the doctors, nurses, and staff have all taken very good care of me."
Gus Bryngelson
Oropharyngeal cancer patient
Treatments We Offer
Treatment depends on your cancer stage, location, and overall health. These are common options:
Our Expertise
As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care available:
- High-level care in multiple specialties, including surgery, radiation, pathology, reconstruction, and rehabilitation.
- Customized treatment strategies for oropharyngeal cancers
- Management of complexities of care across disciplines
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
Find an Oropharyngeal Cancer Doctor
Oropharyngeal Cancer Research
Our expert research teams are working to improve treatment for head and neck cancers, especially in advanced cases. Through clinical trials, we explore new therapies that may offer better outcomes. Our research includes immunotherapy, which uses your own body’s immune system to fight cancer, de-escalation strategies in HPV-related disease, and novel targeted agents that improve outcomes while reducing side effects.
By participating, you play an active role in advancing care and helping others facing the same diagnosis.
Interested in learning more? Talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with an Oropharyngeal Cancer Specialist
To make an appointment with an oropharyngeal cancer specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Oropharyngeal Cancer Basics
Oropharyngeal cancer is a disease in which malignant cells form in the tissues of the oropharynx, which includes the soft palate, side and back walls of the throat, tonsils, and the back one-third of the tongue.
These are warning signs of oropharyngeal cancer:
- Persistent sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty opening mouth fully
- Limited tongue movement
- Unexplained weight loss
- Ear pain
- Lump in throat, mouth, or neck
- White patch on tongue or mouth lining
- Coughing up blood
Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. If you are experiencing any concerning signs, schedule a screening today.
These are risk factors for oropharyngeal cancer:
- Smoking
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Personal history of other head and neck cancers
- Heavy alcohol use
Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.
Doctors may use the following to diagnose oropharyngeal cancer:
- Physical exam and health history
- CT, MRI, or PET imaging
- Biopsy, or tissue sampling
- Stage 0: Carcinoma in situ
- Stage 1: Tumor ≤ 2 cm, confined
- Stage 2: Tumor 2–4 cm, confined
- Stage 3: Tumor has spread to one lymph node or involvement of epiglottis
- Stage 4 (4A, 4B, 4C): Tumor has spread beyond local area or multiple lymph nodes, metastasis possible
Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.
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