We are not qualified to make these calls for you but I would say that with nodes affected on both sides it's worse than just one side. Seven is also a lot compared to most that catch this cancer at this stage. Most important thing is to begin the Tx that has proven to be the only way to stop this cancer. I would still press to have his cancer cells tested for HPV. Note this is a separate test and is not routinely done.

David

Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.