Chemotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer
Head and neck cancer can develop in the mouth, nasal cavity, salivary glands, sinuses, throat or voice box (larynx). The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma, which starts in the thin, flat cells that line the skin, hollow organs and the respiratory and digestive tracts.
Risk factors for head and neck cancer include long-term tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption and persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Other contributing factors may include prolonged sun exposure, poor oral health and contact with certain harmful substances, such as asbestos, formaldehyde, nickel, sulfuric acid mist, nickel, paint fumes and wood dust.
Head and neck cancer is most commonly found in adults 40 and older and affects more men than women. Overall, it accounts for approximately 4% of cancers in the United States. The warning signs can vary depending on the location of the tumor. Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing, nonhealing mouth sores, persistent sore throat, swelling in the neck, unexpected weight loss and vocal hoarseness. The diagnostic process typically involves a physical examination, imaging tests and a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Because many types of head and neck cancer can be managed effectively and even cured, early detection and prompt treatment are vital. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy and/or surgery.
When is chemotherapy used for head and neck cancer?
Chemotherapy may be recommended for head and neck cancer in several situations. For a locally advanced tumor, it may be combined with radiation therapy (chemoradiation) to improve treatment effectiveness. It may also be given before surgery or radiation therapy to shrink the tumor and make it easier to treat, or used instead of surgery to help preserve function, such as maintaining the patient’s natural voice. For cancer that has spread beyond the head and neck or returned after treatment, chemotherapy can help relieve the symptoms and slow the progression of the tumor.
What does chemotherapy for head and neck cancer involve?
Chemotherapy uses powerful medications that enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body to target and destroy actively dividing cells, such as cancer cells. The specific drug combination and schedule can vary depending on the type, location and stage of the tumor and the patient’s overall health. Options may include:
- Carboplatin
- Cetuximab
- Cisplatin
- Docetaxel
- Fluorouracil
- Methotrexate
- Paclitaxel
Chemotherapy is typically given in cycles over the course of several weeks or months. Each cycle includes a period of active treatment followed by a period of rest. For example, a patient might receive chemotherapy daily for one week, then have three weeks off to allow the body time to recover. Together, this four-week period makes up one treatment cycle.
What happens during chemotherapy for head and neck cancer?
Chemotherapy drugs are most often administered through an intravenous (IV) line or surgically placed port. The treatment is typically given in a cancer hospital or outpatient infusion center, with each session lasting up to several hours. In some cases, the medications may be taken orally in pill form, although this method is less commonly used for head and neck cancer treatment.
During chemotherapy, the patient will be monitored closely for immediate side effects, and anti-nausea medications and other supportive measures may be used to improve comfort. Follow-up visits will be scheduled between chemotherapy sessions to allow the physician to assess the response and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
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What are the possible side effects of chemotherapy for head and neck cancer?
Chemotherapy works by targeting rapidly dividing cells throughout the body. While its goal is to destroy cancer cells, it can also affect healthy cells that naturally regenerate quickly, such as those in the bone marrow, digestive tract, hair follicles and mouth. For this reason, many patients experience temporary side effects, such as appetite changes, fatigue, hair loss, mouth sores, nausea and vomiting. Chemotherapy can also lower blood cell counts, which may weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infection.
The type and severity of chemotherapy side effects can vary depending on the specific medications used and other factors. In many cases, the discomfort can be managed with supportive care and typically improves once treatment is completed.
What are the risks and possible complications of chemotherapy for head and neck cancer?
In addition to temporary side effects, chemotherapy carries certain risks and complications. Though rare, some patients may develop long-term issues, such as hearing loss, kidney problems or nerve damage (neuropathy). An allergic reaction to the chemotherapy drugs is also possible. Additionally, if chemotherapy suppresses bone marrow function significantly, the patient may face a heightened risk of severe infection or excessive bleeding. With careful monitoring and supportive treatments, these risks can be minimized.
What to expect during recovery from chemotherapy for head and neck cancer
Recovery from chemotherapy looks different for every patient. While most side effects should gradually improve after treatment ends, some—such as fatigue—may take longer to resolve. Follow-up care often includes periodic blood tests, imaging scans and check-ins with the healthcare team to track progress and check for any signs of recurrence. During recovery, many patients benefit from supportive therapies, such as nutritional counseling, physical therapy or speech therapy, which can help manage the residual effects of treatment and improve quality of life.
How effective is chemotherapy for head and neck cancer?
The effectiveness of chemotherapy can vary depending on the type and stage of the tumor and the details of the treatment plan. When combined with radiation therapy, it can greatly increase the likelihood of controlling the cancer and lower the risk of recurrence. In an advanced or metastatic case, chemotherapy may not provide a cure, but it can slow the growth of the tumor, ease the symptoms and enhance the patient’s quality of life. Ongoing advances in immunotherapy and targeted therapies are also being combined with chemotherapy, offering a new source of hope for improved outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer.
Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center
The scientists and clinicians at Moffitt are continually evaluating promising new treatment options for head and neck cancer, including novel chemotherapy drugs and drug combinations currently available only through our robust portfolio of clinical trials. Our multispecialty team takes a bench-to-bedside approach, allowing many patients to benefit from state-of-the-art therapies as soon as they become available.
Chemotherapy for head and neck cancer is available at all Moffitt locations, and we do not require referrals. If you would like more information, you can request an appointment with a specialist in our Head and Neck Cancer Program by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online.
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