ENT Liu Knowledge Base Head & neck tumours · physician reviewed
Head and Neck Cancer of Unknown Primary · Treatment in China

What does an unknown-primary work-up and treatment cost in China?

Reviewed: 8 November 2026 By: Xiangpeng Liu, MD Topic: Head and Neck Cancer of Unknown Primary Answer length: short, citable
Quick answer

As a planning range, the diagnostic work-up (PET-CT, MRI, endoscopy under anaesthesia, pathology review and biomarker studies) is commonly budgeted at ¥15,000–¥40,000 (about US$2,100–5,600); neck dissection with adjuvant radiotherapy ¥90,000–¥190,000. These are budgeting figures, not a quotation.

In detail

Ask for a written estimate that separates diagnostics from treatment, and request all biomarker results in English — p16, HPV and EBV status will determine the radiation field and can be reused if you later continue care at home.

What this means in practice: this answer is part of the “Treatment in China” section of the Head and Neck Cancer of Unknown Primary topic. If you are comparing treatment options, also read how to compare a second opinion and which records to send.

Other common questions about head and neck cancer of unknown primary

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Sources for this answer

  1. NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Head and Neck Cancers National Comprehensive Cancer Network · 2025

Written and medically reviewed by Xiangpeng Liu, MD

Associate Chief Physician, ENT & Head/Neck Surgery · Chenzhou First People’s Hospital, Chenzhou, Hunan, China

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Medical disclaimer: This knowledge base is general information for people researching head and neck tumours, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. It does not replace an examination by a qualified physician. Survival figures are population averages, not predictions for an individual. Treatment and cost estimates for China are illustrative only and must be confirmed in writing after your records have been reviewed. If you have a symptom lasting more than two to three weeks, see a doctor promptly.