What should you know about skin cancer in the throat?

Skin cancer does not usually begin in the throat; a throat lesion needs examination to identify its actual cause. The throat contains mucosal lining and other tissues, so a growth there may represent throat cancer, infection, irritation, a benign lesion, or spread from another site. A [Throat Cancer](/conditions/throat-cancer/) assessment can include an examination, a camera test, imaging, and a biopsy when appropriate.

Possible warning symptoms include a persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, a neck lump, unexplained bleeding, ear pain, weight loss, or a [Hoarse Voice](/symptoms/hoarse-voice/). These symptoms have many possible causes and do not establish cancer. A clinician considers how long they have lasted, examines the mouth and throat, and may check the neck for enlarged lymph nodes.

Arrange a clinical review if a throat symptom persists, returns, or interferes with eating, drinking, or speaking. Bring a list of medicines and describe smoking or alcohol exposure, reflux symptoms, dental problems, skin cancer history, and any change in a mole or skin lesion. If testing identifies cancer, treatment depends on its location, size, spread, and tissue type. Options may include [Tumour Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/tumour-removal-surgery/), [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/), [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/), or a combination.

Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly increasing swelling in the mouth or throat, coughing or vomiting blood, or sudden voice loss with breathing problems. Contact a clinician promptly for a neck lump, persistent hoarseness, worsening swallowing difficulty, or unexplained bleeding. Urgency is based on the symptom and its effect on breathing or swallowing, not on assuming that it is cancer.

Ask where the symptom is located, what causes are being considered, and whether you need an ear, nose, and throat examination. Ask what a biopsy or scan would show, when results will be available, and how treatment would affect swallowing, speech, or skin. Tell the clinician about any previous [Throat Cancer](/conditions/throat-cancer/) diagnosis or skin cancer treatment.