Throat Cancer

What is "throat cancer"?

Cancer of the pharynx (also called pharyngeal or throat cancer) forms in the tissues of the hollow tube inside the neck which starts behind the nose and ends at the top of the windpipe and esophagus. There are three types of throat cancer:

Nasopharyngeal: This cancer originates in the tissues of the upper part of the throat, behind the nose.

Oropharyngeal cancer: This cancer originates in the middle of the throat.

Hypopharyngeal cancer: This cancer originates in the bottom of the throat, above the windpipe.

There is hope, innovation and support available for those with pharyngeal (throat) cancer here at the U-M Rogel Cancer Center. Contact us at 734-647-8902

Patient Care and Treatment
The Head and Neck Oncology Program follows a team approach to care. Our patients with throat cancer have their situation discussed not only by our head and neck oncologists, but also by team surgeons and pathologists. By having everyone involved, a personalized treatment plan is developed. In most cases, this discussion happens the same day as the appointment.

Research and innovation: U-M researchers are at the forefront of understanding how HPV, or human papillomavirus, plays a role in the recent increase in head and neck cancers. We know patients with HPV-related tumors respond differently to treatment, and our clinical trials seek to understand how we can deliver the most effective treatments with the fewest side effects. In addition, we have a number of clinical trials open for eligible patients.

Support
Undergoing treatment for cancer -- particularly head and neck cancer -- is a difficult and sometimes painful process. To help, we've put together a page filled with Resources and Support for Patients. There are links to articles about treatment, survivor stories and information about support groups. Since our program is part of the U-M Rogel Cancer Center, our patients have access to a range of Patient Support Services. To fully understand what this means, please take time to visit the support services area of this website. We outline the services available to all of our patients at every point in their care.

Appointments/referrals

Patients, please call 734-647-8902. Healthcare professionals, please contact our M-LINE service: 800-962-3555.

For more information, visit our Head and Neck Cancer Clinic webpage.