Thanks, Mark. I wasn't too up on the lingo yet since all of this is still new to me, so "oral cancer" did not occur to me! Actually, I started out searching for tonsil cancer, and found next to nothing! In any case, I'm certainly glad I found this site.

I actually asked why they could not just remove the lymph nodes rather than the tonsils (as this seems much less invasive and painful in terms of recovery). My ENT had his partner in there for her opinion too, and they said that if it is cancer, then they would treat with radiation rather than removing the lymph nodes. The suggestion was that taking the lymph nodes out would mess up the course of treatment if it is cancer. The partner also said something about a fear of releasing cancer cells into the system if they removed the nodes. It seems from what I've seen on this site and elsewhere that neither of these propositions is necessarily true, which is one of the reasons I will not stay with these doctors if this is cancer.

One final note: I am a lawyer and sometimes I think that doctors take the most cautious approach with me for fear of malpractice (although I am a defense lawyer, and not in that field of law). The ENT actually told me at my initial appointment that we would just watch all this for 30 days. Then he called me back on the phone and suggested that we should go ahead with a CT scan and scope. I think his main concern is the enlarged tonsil/asymmetry. I guess there is a chance if they tested the nodes that they could be non-cancerous but the tonsil could still have cancer, so maybe that is why is recommending the tonsillectomy?

Again, thanks for all your attention and support. I find that one minute I am feeling positive and good, and the next I find myself looking at my kids and wondering if I will be here to raise them! I am trying to make myself not panic, but I am a worrier by nature. You and the others here have been through so much more fear and uncertainty, so I guess I should not be burdening you with my worries though! You are sweet to take the time to respond to me anyway.

Best,
Jenn