The most common type of laryngeal cancer

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 10, 2024
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At present, laryngeal cancer is classified based on anatomical location into three main types, with glottic cancer being the most common. Supraglottic and subglottic cancers are relatively less common. The primary symptom of glottic cancer is hoarseness, which can be noticeable in the early stages. Therefore, generally, the earlier the disease is diagnosed, the better the treatment outcome may be. Additionally, laryngeal cancer is also classified by pathological types. The main pathological type is squamous cell carcinoma. Overall, surgical treatment is the most important, but depending on the patient's stage and type of cancer, a combination of radiation and chemotherapy might be necessary.

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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Can throat cancer be cured?

Throat cancer cannot be completely cured because cancer is a topic that is difficult to conquer worldwide. However, if throat cancer is detected early, it can be treated early to minimize the possibility of recurrence. The most common causes of throat cancer are prolonged exposure to toxic gases, food, or stimulations from smoking, alcohol, acid reflux, and chronic inflammation, which lead to mutations in the cells of the throat and eventually lead to cancer. Symptoms include hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, breathing difficulties, and a foreign body sensation in the throat. First, a detailed examination using an electronic laryngoscope at a hospital can reveal cauliflower-like neoplasms or volcanic-like ulcers at any location in the throat, which requires local specimen collection. If the tumor is confirmed to be malignant, the patient needs to undergo timely local surgical treatment, followed by the necessary radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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How to diagnose throat cancer

Laryngeal cancer examinations are mainly divided into two categories. The first category is laryngoscopy, and the second is imaging studies. Laryngoscopy is further subdivided into fiberoptic laryngoscopy, electronic laryngoscopy, and indirect laryngoscopy. Indirect laryngoscopy is relatively rudimentary and generally doesn't play a significant role in diagnosing laryngeal cancer. Therefore, fiberoptic or electronic laryngoscopy is typically preferred as these methods can directly determine the presence of neoplasms in the throat. If a neoplasm is detected, further pathological biopsy testing can be considered. The other method is imaging studies, primarily involving CT scans or MRI of the throat. These are helpful in determining the size, extent, and preliminary nature of the throat neoplasms. Combined with the above methods, a definitive diagnosis can generally be established.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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How to rule out throat cancer

Throat cancer is a common malignant tumor in otolaryngology, ranking among the top of various malignant tumors in this field. Patients with throat cancer typically experience symptoms such as throat pain and discomfort in the early stages. We can use electronic laryngoscopy and CT scans of the throat area for diagnosis to achieve early detection and treatment. For cases showing cauliflower-like or abnormal proliferation in the throat area, a local biopsy can be conducted for pathological confirmation. Once throat cancer is detected, it is crucial to complete necessary examinations promptly, rule out surgical contraindications, and proceed with surgery as soon as possible. Treatment should also be complemented with radiotherapy and chemotherapy to aid in curing the patient.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Early symptoms of throat cancer

The early symptoms of laryngeal cancer vary among individuals and are related to the specific personal reactions and type of laryngeal cancer. In the case of glottic laryngeal cancer, the early signs are typically hoarseness, which can be sudden, persistent, or recurrent and is generally exacerbated after excessive use of the voice. This condition can be directly assessed using a laryngoscopy followed by a pathological biopsy. Some patients may also experience a foreign body sensation, pain, or burning sensation in the throat. If the cancer covers a relatively larger area, it may cause difficulty in breathing. In such cases, prompt examination is necessary to determine the nature of the condition and consider a comprehensive treatment approach primarily involving surgery.

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Written by Cheng Fu Wei
Otolaryngology
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Precursors of throat cancer

Nasopharyngeal cancer, located behind the nasal cavity and above the oropharynx, is generally difficult to diagnose early due to its concealed location. However, there are early signs, such as nasopharyngeal bloodstained mucus experienced during sniffing, which should raise suspicions of nasopharyngeal cancer. Additionally, early-stage nasopharyngeal cancer may present with unilateral nasal obstruction, which gradually progresses to more severe blockage. Another indication is the presence of a neck lump or enlarged lymph nodes, which also suggests the possibility of nasopharyngeal cancer. Other nonspecific reactions, such as dermatitis, dermatomyositis, or a general skin rash, should also be considered potential indicators of nasopharyngeal cancer. These signs require attention.