Getting diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer

You usually start by seeing your GP if you have symptoms. Your GP will examine you and might refer you for tests or to see a specialist. If the tests show that you have cancer, you have more tests to find out its size and whether it has spread. This is called staging.

Seeing your GP when you have symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancer

You should see your GP if you notice a change that isn't normal for you or you have any possible symptoms of cancer. 

Referral to a specialist for possible nasopharyngeal cancer

Your GP might refer you to a specialist if you have symptoms that could be caused by nasopharyngeal cancer.

Tests for nasopharyngeal cancer

You have a number of tests to check for nasopharyngeal cancer. The tests you might have include a nasoendoscopy and ultrasound scan. 
 

Screening for nasopharyngeal cancer

There is no national screening programme for nasopharyngeal cancer in the UK. Screening means testing people for early stages of a disease before they have any symptoms. 

Last reviewed: 
22 Mar 2024
Next review due: 
22 Mar 2027