Tonsil tumours tend to affect younger patients. The incidence of the disease is increasing rapidly in the Czech Republic, and it is now 3 times higher than 30 years ago. This increase is directly related to the spread of human papillomavirus HPV 16, the presence of which has been confirmed in many patients in recent years*.
The treatment of malignant tumours of the head and neck area, including the tonsils, must be comprehensive and requires a team of doctors. It is governed by the location of the primary tumour, histology, the extent of the disease, and the general condition of the patient.
The main treatment modalities for tonsil tumours are surgery and radiotherapy. In early stages, surgery or radiotherapy are indicated as separate treatment modalities. Advanced stages usually require combined treatment (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy).
The objective of modern oncological treatment is to ensure patients the maximum chance of recovery while minimising adverse effects related to the treatment. Today, this goal can be achieved with proton therapy. Proton therapy is gentler because it can reduce the exposure of surrounding tissues and organs to unwanted radiation and thus limit the risk of treatment-related complications.
Proton therapy is exceptional, in particular, because it demonstrably reduces the risk of side effects associated with other types of treatment while also rendering excellent treatment results. It is very beneficial, e.g., for the treatment of tonsil tumours, where it enables delivery of the dose necessary for tumour destruction.
