Concurrent chemoradiation
Chemotherapy given with radiation for organ preservation or high-risk disease, with close toxicity support.
7 min read
Head & neck cancer: treatment that respects function and voice
Cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box, and neck need careful planning so treatment controls disease while protecting speech, swallowing, and appearance. Dr. Dhar guides systemic therapy within a multidisciplinary plan.
What are head and neck cancers?
These cancers arise in the oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, hypopharynx, nasal cavity, and related structures. Tobacco, alcohol, and HPV infection are major risk factors for many subtypes.
Treatment often combines surgery, radiation, and systemic therapy. Chemotherapy and immunotherapy may be used before, during, or after local therapy depending on stage.
Quality of life is central — preserving speech, swallowing, and nutrition is part of every serious treatment discussion.
Warning signs
- A mouth ulcer or sore that does not heal
- Persistent sore throat or ear pain
- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of something stuck
- Hoarseness lasting more than two weeks
- A neck lump
- Unexplained weight loss or oral bleeding
When to consult
- Biopsy-proven cancer of the mouth, throat, or larynx
- A neck node with unknown primary under evaluation
- Planning chemotherapy with radiation (chemoradiation)
- Recurrent or metastatic disease needing systemic options
- Second opinion on induction therapy or immunotherapy
Evaluation
- 01Clinical examination of the oral cavity and neck
- 02Endoscopy / laryngoscopy as needed
- 03Biopsy of the primary site or node
- 04HPV testing for relevant oropharyngeal cancers
- 05CT, MRI, or PET-CT for staging
- 06Dental and nutrition assessment before intensive therapy
QUICK CHECK
Does this apply to you?
Prepare your questions with this short list.
Select anything that applies — then book a visit to review reports together.
Book appointmentHow we approach treatment
Plans are built with ENT/head-neck surgery and radiation oncology so local control and systemic care work together.
Induction / neoadjuvant therapy
Systemic therapy before local treatment in selected locally advanced cases to shrink disease.
Immunotherapy
Checkpoint inhibitors for recurrent or metastatic disease when guidelines and fitness support their use.
Supportive oncology
Feeding plans, pain control, oral care, and rehabilitation to protect function through treatment.
Care sequence
01
Map the disease
Confirm site, stage, HPV status, and resectability with the surgical team.
What to prepare and expect
- Bring biopsy, HPV/p16 reports, and imaging
- Share tobacco, alcohol, and prior cancer history
- Complete dental clearance if radiation is planned
- Discuss nutrition — feeding tubes are planned early when needed
Frequently asked questions
HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers often have a different outlook and may follow distinct treatment pathways. Testing helps personalise care.
Risk depends on tumour location and treatment intensity. The team plans therapy and rehabilitation to protect function whenever possible.
Radiation can affect saliva and jaw bone. Treating dental issues first reduces serious complications later.
Most often for recurrent or metastatic disease, and in selected other settings based on current evidence and your fitness.
LET'S TAKE THE NEXT STEPYour care deserves
Your care deserves
a conversation.
Share a few details and the clinic team will help arrange a consultation with Dr. Dhar. Prefer to talk now? Reach the appointment desk directly.
ClinicMarengo Asia HospitalsGurugram, HaryanaGet directions