Hi All - I am newly diagnosed with SCC to my left tonsil and one left lymph node, with initial testing indicating HPV+. I have met with my Medical Ongologist and will meet with the RO next week. Radiation treatment is expected to be daily for 7 weeks. Chemo is to be either Cisplatin (once every 21 days) or Taxol and Carboplatin (once a week for 7 weeks). The MO says he is leaning toward the Taxol/Carbo as the Cisplatin is very hard to tolerate, but the decision will be made by the full team.

I am wondering what the "Gold" standard of care is for Tonsil SCC? My searching finds mention the above drugs as well as several others (5-FU, etc.)

Also, the MO prefers NOT to put in a peg tube at this time; says we can put one in if I need it. My surgical oncologist recommends putting it in before treatment begins. I am a small framed woman - 56 years, 110 pounds - and really worry about not being able to maintain my health if the throat issues are as bad as I have read. Any and all thoughts/suggestions/experiences would be helpful.

Thanks!!
Nancy