Oropharyngeal cancer

Nutrition is the key for patient recovery after treatment. Most patients lose weight during treatment because of surgery or mucositis induced by radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy. A dietitian should be consulted for severe weight loss, and in case of prolonged tube feedings. Swallowing therapy should be initiated early after treatment for patients with aspiration and severe dysphagia. One study found that preventative rehabilitation in patients with head and neck cancer appears helpful in reducing the extent and/or severity of some functional short-term effects of concomitant chemoradiotherapy.[133]van der Molen L, van Rossum MA, Burkhead LM, et al. A randomized preventive rehabilitation trial in advanced head and neck cancer patients treated with chemoradiotherapy: feasibility, compliance, and short-term effects. Dysphagia. 2010 Jul 11;26(2):155-70. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00455-010-9288-y http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20623305?tool=bestpractice.com

Radiotherapy to the neck is associated with hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormone levels should be checked routinely after radiotherapy treatment. Patients should be instructed about signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism for early detection and thyroid hormone replacement.

Many patients have questions related to the transmission of human papillomavirus (HPV). Currently, no recommendations exist to support changes in sexual or other behaviour. Patients should be advised that usual behaviour among family members will not transmit HPV.