Dr Dawn Carnell

Dr Dawn Carnell is a consultant Clinical Oncologist based at University College Hospital London since 2005, working and teaching within an exceptional multidisciplinary team of dedicated professionals in head and neck cancer.   She trained at The Royal Marsden and University College Hospital. Her UCL research (MD), CRUK sponsored, investigated cancer hypoxia and Blood Oxygen Level Dependent (BOLD) Magnetic Resonance Imaging, led to translational research for radiation dose escalation aiming to achieve higher cancer cure rates.   Her research interests include the technical delivery of radiotherapy whilst minimising late effects, UCLH based PET and Functional MRI radiotherapy studies and fibrosis/late effects trials in head and neck cancer. Dr Carnell is part of the proton head and neck multidisciplinary team delivering Proton Beam Radiotherapy treatment where clinically indicated to allow effective cure and aiming to minimise the late side effects of high dose radiation treatment. She supports national head and neck studies. Qualifications: BSc (University of London RFHSM) Immunopathology            1989 MBBS (University of London) Merit in Medicine and Surgery 1991 MRCP (UK)                                                                                     1996 FRCR                                                                                               2000 MD (UCL)                                                                                        2012 GCP  

Dr Carnell is a specialist clinical oncologist for all types of head and neck cancer working within an exceptional head and neck MDT. Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy is given as the standard of care with concurrent chemotherapy, immunotherapy and molecular targeted treatments where indicated. Her special clinical interest includes Proton Beam Therapy for head and neck cancer patients and this is available at UCH. This is of particular value for younger patients or where the tumour is close to radiosensitive tissues. She has a particular interest in sinus tumours, including rare olfactory neuroblastoma and peri-orbital tumours, where tailored surgery and proton beam therapy can deliver an effective cure with reduced late effects.