Created by Itzhak Brook MD a physician and a laryngectomee. It contains information about head and neck cancer, life after laryngectomy, and manuscripts and videos about Dr. Brook's personal experiences as a patient with throat cancer. It has information about side effects of radiation and chemotherapy; methods of speaking; airway, mucus, stoma, voice prosthesis; eating and swallowing; medical, dental and psychological issues; respiration; anesthesia; travelling; and COVID-19.
Mike Douglas was diagnosed with cancer in August 2010. After months of radiation and chemotherapy for late-stage throat cancer, actor Michael Douglas announced today that he is tumor-free. To hear Mike Douglas describe his condition watch the interviewon the NBC Today Show. No trace of the stage 4, walnut-size tumor at the base of his tongue could be detected on medical imaging, according to Douglas which is a sign complete response to treatment. He discussed the radiation side effects that he suffered which including losing 32 pounds and reduction of saliva production.
However, even in the absence of detectable disease, there is at risk for recurrence and prognosis depends significantly on the biology of the tumor. The risk of recurrence is the highest in the first 2 years after diagnosis and treatment. Regular follow up examinations that includes CT and PET scans are very important in ensuring early detection of cancer recurrence.
Tongue-base cancers that are caused byhuman papillomavirus (HPV) infection have generally excellent cure rates with a five-year survival ranging 70-80%. It is, however, It is unclear whether Douglas' cancer was positive for HPV.
