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Diagnosis of Oral Cancer

Tests That Help Evaluate Oral Cancer

Your doctor will take a sample of cells from your mouth and perhaps your neck in a process called a biopsy in order to know that you have cancer. The biopsy may be done in the doctor's office or at the hospital.

Your doctor may also request additional tests to learn more about your specific type of cancer and its location. These tests provide information that your health care team uses to help decide on the treatment that is likely to be most effective for you.

Here are some of the tests you may need to have:

INTERESTED IN AN ONLINE SECOND OPINION?

The Stanford Medicine Online Second Opinion program offers you easy access to our world-class doctors. It’s all done remotely and you don’t have to visit our hospital or one of our clinics for this service. You don’t even need to leave home!

Visit our online second opinion page to learn more.

Condition Spotlight

Jaw Reconstructive Surgery Offers Hope for Cancer Survivors Watch Video
Head & Neck Cancer: Multidisciplinary Care at Stanford
Head & Neck Cancer: Multidisciplinary Care at Stanford Play Video | 6:21
Transoral Robotics Forge Easier Treatment and Recovery
Transoral Robotics Forge Easier Treatment and Recovery Play Video | 4:28

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.

Open trials refer to studies currently accepting participants. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.

Open Trials Closed Trials
Clinical Trials View All »

Head and Neck Cancer Program

See a Stanford specialist to learn about your treatment options. Visit our clinic to make an appointment.

Head and Neck Cancer Program
900 Blake Wilbur Drive
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Phone: 650-498-6000
Visit Clinic

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