Dad’s HPV Cancer Scare: A Lump Nearly Cost Him His Tongue

A father of two from Cardiff, Wales, nearly lost his ability to speak and eat after a seemingly innocuous lump under his jaw was diagnosed as cancer. Anthony Perriam, 41, discovered the lump and sought medical attention, leading to a diagnosis of head and neck cancer linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Perriam’s case highlights a growing, and often overlooked, connection between HPV and certain cancers, particularly among men. He initially assumed HPV was solely related to cervical cancer, a common misconception. “I’d only ever heard of HPV in relation to cervical cancer. I had no idea it could cause cancers like this, especially in men,” he stated.

The diagnosis came after a series of tests, including a CT scan, biopsy, and MRI, in March 2023. Doctors discovered a tumor at the base of his tongue. He ultimately underwent a complex surgical procedure involving the removal of 44 lymph nodes from his neck, along with the tumor itself, utilizing robotic-assisted surgery. This was followed by a course of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

HPV is a common group of viruses that typically doesn’t cause problems, but certain strains can lead to cancer or genital warts. While often associated with sexually transmitted infections, the virus can remain dormant for years before manifesting as cancer. The strains of HPV that cause cervical cancer are the same strains that can cause head and neck cancers, according to experts.

Perriam’s experience underscores the importance of early detection. He emphasized, “If you find a lump, even if it doesn’t hurt, get it checked. This kind of cancer isn’t talked about enough, especially among men. Early action really does save lives.” He described the fear he felt for his young children, aged three and six at the time of his diagnosis, as a primary motivator to fight the disease.

The treatment process was arduous. Perriam experienced significant side effects from the radiotherapy and chemotherapy, including a substantial weight loss of 22 kilograms and severe difficulty with swallowing and saliva production. At one point, he required a wheelchair due to weakness.

The HPV vaccine, Gardasil, is recommended by health officials for children aged 12 and 13, as well as individuals at higher risk. The vaccine has demonstrated significant efficacy in preventing HPV-related cancers. In Wales, the NHS reports that the vaccine has reduced rates of cervical cancer by nearly 90% in women in their twenties since its introduction in 2008.

Sandeep Berry, an otorhinolaryngologist and head and neck surgeon at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, advocates for widespread vaccination. “The HPV vaccine has been used worldwide for years, is safe and effective,” he explained. “It helps keep boys and girls healthy, prevents HPV-related cancers and strengthens public health overall.” He added that vaccination is most effective when administered before the onset of sexual activity, as this is when the immune system responds most strongly.

While there isn’t a routine screening test for throat cancer comparable to those for cervical or breast cancer, awareness of potential symptoms is crucial. These symptoms can include a persistent cough, changes in voice, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, a sore throat, or a lump that doesn’t heal.

Perriam’s story serves as a powerful reminder that HPV-related cancers can affect anyone, and that prompt medical attention is vital. The majority of people infected with HPV will clear the virus naturally, but for those who don’t, early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.