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Newly diagnosed with Tonsil Cancer - Have the choice of Radiotherapy or Surgery

Vharkhan
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Hey guys.

Noticed a lump left side of my neck end of March. Went to the docs beginning of April and was referred to the Hospital. Had my tonsils removed 1st May due to one being swollen to the point it was almost at the middle of my throat. Had an MRI, Ultrasound, fine needle biopsy, bilateral biopsies during my tonsillectomy, and a PET-CT scan, and they've come back to me with the diagnosis of left tonsil squamous cell carcinoma, P16 positive (which is a very fancy way of saying tonsil cancer). Honestly didn't know tonsil cancer was even a thing until now!

They've said although it's a decent size, we've caught it relatively quickly, and it hasn't spread anywhere else, and due to this, it is highly treatable and curable. I know I am extremely lucky, not everyone gets that level of certainty. I now have the choice of either 30 rounds of radiotherapy, or surgery. I'm awaiting meetings with both teams so they can walk me though both procedures so I can make an educated decision.

I'm wondering if anyone here has been through either route of this and can give me an idea of what they went through?

  • Hello Vharkhan, and welcome to Cancer Chat.

    Thanks for sharing your story, it’s really encouraging to hear that your cancer was caught early and is considered highly treatable and curable. 

    There is some information on our website about treatment for tonsil cancer I wanted to share with you in case if you feel like having a read.

    I hope other members who’ve faced similar decisions will step in shortly to share their experiences and what helped them choose between the two paths.

    If you need someone with medical insight to talk things through - whether about treatments, recovery, or emotional support - our nurse helpline is here for you. You can call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9 am–5 pm.

    Wishing you clarity and calm as you next meet with the teams.

    Best wishes,
    Renata, Cancer     Chat Moderator

  • Offline

    Hi Vharkan.

    Firstly im sorry to hear about your Diagnosis.

    I was diagnosed a few years back with Stage 3 P16+ Tonsil Cancer.

    I would like to explain that P16+ Means that it's a Viral type Cancer caused by Human Pappilomavirus (Essentially an STD)

    This is what makes your Cancer "treatable" as its very susceptible to Radiotherapy. 

    If you have the option for Surgery alone, take the Surgery as the Radio has more side effects. I have saliva issues (don't make enough) which leaves me with dry mouth as well as some scarring and pain with some issues swallowing.

    I personally had both with Chemo as mine had gone Lymphatic. 

    I am now however 4 yesrs post and well in remission and leading 95% of a normal life at 36 with 4 kids working full time for the NHS on a front line Ambulance.

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