What is the oropharynx ?The oropharynx is the middle part of the pharynx (throat). The pharynx is a hollow tube that begins behind the nose and goes down to the neck, becoming part of the tube that extends into the stomach (esophagus). The oropharynx includes the base of the tongue, the tonsils, the soft palate (back of the mouth), and the walls of the pharynx. Oropharyngeal cancerOropharyngeal cancer is a disease in which cancer cells are found within the anatomical borders of the oropharynx. The majority of oropharyngeal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. Symptoms of oropharyngeal cancer The following might be signs of oropharyngeal cancer or of other conditions. See a doctor if any of the following symptoms are present : -A sore throat that persistsPain or difficulty with swallowingUnexplained weight loss Voice changesEar painA lump in the back of the throat or mouthA lump in the neck