Laryngeal carcinoma (throat cancer)

Description A collection of can...

Description

A collection of cancerous cells in the larynx that can obstruct the airway, prevent swallowing, or damage vital blood vessels in the neck. The larynx or voice box contains the vocal cords and is located between the pharynx (mouth and throat) and the trachea (windpipe). The following conditions increase the risk of this cancer: age greater than 55, smoking and drinking excessive alcohol.

Symptoms

Abnormal (high-pitched) breathing sounds, cough, coughing up blood, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness that does not resolve in 1 to 2 weeks, neck pain, sore throat that does not resolve in 1 to 2 weeks, even with antibiotics, swelling in the neck, unintentional weight loss.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A laryngoscopy (examination with a flexible scope) will be performed to enable the physician to directly visualize the tumor. A CT scan or MRI can further identify the extent of the throat cancer. A biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis and identify the type of cancer.

Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Other Specific Tests: Laryngoscopy, Biopsy

Specialists:
Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT)

Treatment

Treatment depends on the size of the tumor. Small tumors can be treated with surgery or radiation alone. Larger tumors may require surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Extensive tumors require laryngectomy (removal of the larynx, or voice box) and lymph node removal.