Endoscopy at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, revealed inflamed and congested tonsils with a tumor and pus. A neck ultrasound showed multiple lymph nodes ranging from 0.5 cm to 3 cm, exhibiting poor echogenicity and loss of hilar fat. MRI scans confirmed a space-occupying lesion in the tonsil region. Lymph nodes, some over 5 cm, with necrosis and fat infiltration, were also found in the submandibular area and along both carotid vascular bundles. A tonsil biopsy confirmed squamous cell carcinoma.

Master, Doctor Nguyen Tien Sy, from the Oncology Department at the Oncology Center, diagnosed Mr. Duong with stage 4 left oropharyngeal tonsil cancer. Malignant cells had invaded the tongue and metastasized to the lymph nodes, with some nodes causing compression and jugular vein invasion. Immunohistochemistry staining of the cancer cells detected the HPV virus, a leading risk factor for tonsil cancer. HPV can infect epithelial cells in the oropharynx, including the tonsils, leading to prolonged abnormal changes that result in cancer.

According to Doctor Sy, tonsil cancer often progresses silently with atypical symptoms, making it easy for patients to mistake it for benign sore throats or tonsillitis. Mr. Duong's disease was discovered at a late stage, with a large tumor causing bleeding, pain radiating to the ear, and swollen neck lymph nodes. Consequently, the treatment prognosis is more complex and prolonged compared to earlier stages.

Following a consultation, doctors prescribed concurrent chemoradiotherapy for about 14 weeks to eliminate the tumor and prevent malignant cells from metastasizing. Mr. Duong adhered to the treatment regimen, responded well, and showed significant health improvement.

Doctor Sy advises Mr. Duong during a follow-up appointment. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Tonsils are large lymphoid tissues in the body, consisting of two glands located on either side of the throat. They produce antibodies against harmful invaders, playing a crucial role in the immune system. Tonsil cancer occurs when cells within the tonsils proliferate abnormally, forming a malignant tumor. This cancer is common in men aged 50-60.

The exact cause of tonsil cancer is currently unknown, but several risk factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, immunodeficiency, infection, genetics, and HPV infection. Symptoms of oral HPV infection vary depending on the virus type. Patients may develop white, pink, flesh-colored, or red lesions in the oral cavity, which typically grow slowly and are often painless. Currently, there is no specific treatment for HPV. However, early detection helps patients enhance preventive measures and cancer screening.

Doctors recommend HPV vaccination and practicing safe sexual behavior to prevent the disease. Additionally, limiting or completely quitting alcohol and tobacco consumption is crucial.

Individuals experiencing a persistent sore throat, toothache, or swollen neck lymph nodes lasting over two weeks should visit a hospital with an Oncology specialty for examination. Regular health check-ups and head and neck examinations help detect abnormalities early, allowing for timely treatment.

Bao Tram

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