Soft Palate Cancer

Overview

Physicians at Mayo Clinic evaluate and treat more than 100 head and neck cancer patients each year, including several soft palate cancer cases. Mayo's approach uses the latest surgical procedures, and radiation therapy, to treat the cancer and maintain the function of the soft palate. Soft palate cancer patients also can access the resources of the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center. Designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute, Mayo Clinic ranks in the top tier of cancer centers in the United States for cancer research.

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose and stage soft palate cancer, physicians will examine the soft palate using a mirror or fiber-optic instrument and perform a biopsy. In addition, physicians use the latest advances in high-resolution imaging studies such as ultrasounds, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans and computed tomography (CT) scans to diagnose the extent of soft palate cancer. Read more about diagnosis of soft palate cancer.

Treatment Options

Multidisciplinary teams at Mayo Clinic carefully consider each patient's type and stage of soft palate cancer and general health before recommending a treatment plan. Experts use specialized forms of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and rehabilitative services to treat soft palate cancer. Read more about treatment options for soft palate cancer.

• Treatment in Arizona
• Treatment in Florida
• Treatment in Minnesota

About Soft Palate Cancer

Soft palate cancer often develops from squamous cells on the mucosal surfaces (mucous-producing tissue) of the oropharynx. Specialists define the oropharynx as the area in the oral cavity behind the last molar. Smoking cigarettes and drinking large quantities of alcohol can increase a person's risk for developing soft palate cancer. Head and neck cancers make up less than 5 percent of cancers in the United States.

Read more at
www.MayoClinic.com
A service of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research