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Oropharyngeal cancer (throat and tonsil cancer)

Also called: Throat cancer, Back of the tongue cancer, Base of tongue cancer

Cancer of the tonsils and back of the tongue, now most often caused by HPV. HPV-related cases respond very well to treatment.

Main causeHPV, then tobacco and alcohol
PreventionHPV vaccine

Overview

HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer is rising, especially in men in their 50s and 60s, including nonsmokers. It has a better outlook than tobacco-related throat cancer.

Treatment is radiation with chemotherapy, or surgery (often robotic) followed by radiation.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Painless lump in the neck
  • Sore throat or ear pain on one side that won't go away

Less common

  • Trouble or pain swallowing
  • Voice change
  • Weight loss

Look up a symptom: Ear pain · Hoarse voice or trouble swallowing for 3 weeks or more · Losing weight without trying · Sore throat or ear pain on one side that won't go away, or a lump on the tongue · Swollen glands

When to get medical care

Call 911Trouble breathing, heavy bleeding, a seizure, sudden confusion, or fainting: call 911.
Get care todayFever during cancer treatment, or new or quickly worsening symptoms.
See a doctor soonSymptoms lasting more than 2 to 3 weeks.

Causes

Changes in a cell's genes that make it grow out of control. Most happen by chance; some are linked to the risk factors below or to inherited genes.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • Cancer isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone.

Who is more likely to get it

  • HPV infection
  • Smoking
  • Heavy drinking

Diagnosis

Tests look for the cause. Many people checked for these symptoms turn out not to have cancer.

Questions you may be asked

  • When symptoms started and whether they're getting worse
  • Family history of cancer
  • Past illnesses, treatments, and exposures

The exam

A physical exam, focused on where the symptoms are.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Throat exam with a scope:
  • Biopsy with HPV (p16) testing:
  • CT, MRI, or PET scan:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and your overall health. A cancer care team makes a plan with you.

Self-care

  • Write down symptoms and when they started
  • Bring someone with you to appointments
  • Ask for copies of test results
  • Ask about clinical trials: they can offer new treatments
  • Quit smoking: it helps at every stage

Radiation with chemotherapy, or surgery (often robotic), sometimes followed by radiation.

Prevention

To lower risk or find it early:

  • HPV vaccine (ages 9 to 26, and some adults up to 45)
  • Don't smoke

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an oncologist (cancer doctor), often working with surgeons and radiation doctors.

Living with it

  • Keep a simple notebook of symptoms, medicines, and questions for visits.
  • Ask for a survivorship care plan when treatment ends.
  • Gentle activity, like walking, can ease tiredness.
  • A cancer diagnosis can affect mood. Tell the care team if you or your family feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Many people keep working during or after treatment.
  • Ask about changes that help, like flexible hours. Workers may be covered by the ADA.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your cancer team. Some treatments can harm a baby.
  • Ask about saving eggs or sperm before treatment if you may want children later.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care, like fever during treatment.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Outlook depends on the type and stage. Cancers found early are usually easier to treat, and treatments keep improving.

Support is available: ask about social workers, nutrition help, and support groups.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started
  • Past test results and scans

Questions to ask

  • Is my cancer HPV-positive?
  • What are my options for keeping swallowing and taste?
  • What stage is it, and what are the treatment options?
  • Are there clinical trials for me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Oropharyngeal cancer (throat and tonsil cancer)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.