How is adenoid cystic carcinoma treated?

How is adenoid cystic carcinoma treated?

In most cases, adenoid cystic carcinoma is treated first with surgery and may be followed with radiation therapy in some cases. Your surgeon removes the tumor and some healthy tissue surrounding it. They’ll also check to ensure that cancer hasn’t spread anywhere else. In some cases, part of a nerve may need to be removed. In some cases, lymph nodes in the neck may also be surgically removed.

If your surgeon can’t remove the entire tumor without harming other organs, or if there are other high-risk features of the tumor such as large size or nerve or lymph node involvement, then radiation therapy may be recommended. Systemic therapy, including chemotherapy and other targeted agents, may be used in cases of recurrent disease that is no longer amenable to surgery or RT, or in widely metastatic disease.

Side effects of surgery for ACC

One potential side effect of surgery is facial drooping. This occurs if your facial nerve is cut, which may be necessary in some cases. Permanent facial drooping is most common with ACC of the parotid gland.

Reconstructive surgery may be an option to improve facial drooping. Ask your healthcare provider about what to expect in your situation and how to prepare for these side effects.

Side effects of radiation treatment for ACC

Radiation therapy side effects include fatigue and skin changes, such as dryness, peeling or itching. However, there are specific side effects related to radiation therapy in the head and neck area:

• Dry mouth (xerostomia).
• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Hair loss.
• Mouth sores and gum lesions.
• Cavities.

If you’re undergoing radiation therapy in the head and neck area, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly. They can help keep your oral health in check during your cancer treatment.