Tests to diagnose mouth and oropharyngeal cancer

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and your medical history. They will examine you, and might arrange one or more tests.

The specialist usually takes a sample of tissue (biopsy) to diagnose mouth or oropharyngeal cancer.

Biopsy for mouth cancer

A biopsy is when the specialist removes a sample of tissue.

Lymph node biopsy

This test is called a fine needle aspiration or needle biopsy.

Blood tests for mouth and oropharyngeal cancer

You might have some blood tests to check your general health.

Coronavirus and cancer

We know it’s a worrying time for people with cancer, we have information to help.

Read our information about coronavirus and cancer