Can throat cancer be contagious?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 02, 2024
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Laryngeal cancer is a malignant tumor of the larynx, which is clinically primarily squamous cell carcinoma and belongs to epithelial malignancies. Generally, epithelial malignancies are not contagious. However, laryngeal cancer may sometimes be related to certain viral infections, such as papillomatosis, which might be contagious. This is an aspect of its etiology, but laryngeal cancer itself is not contagious. In summary, laryngeal cancer is not contagious. It is a malignant tumor disease, and its clinical treatment mainly involves surgical intervention, which can be supplemented with radiation therapy and other treatments.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Common sites of laryngeal cancer

Laryngeal cancer is a malignant tumor in the larynx, and clinically, it is primarily squamous cell carcinoma. There are several types of laryngeal cancer: firstly, glottic cancer; secondly, supraglottic cancer; there is also subglottic cancer, and transglottic cancer that spans two regions. Among these types, glottic cancer is the most common. Early-stage glottic cancer is generally detected earlier due to hoarseness, and the outcomes after surgery are relatively better. Consequently, the most frequently diagnosed site of this disease is the vocal cords. After surgery, regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor and observe the healing process post-operation.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can throat cancer be detected by a CT scan?

Most laryngeal cancers can be detected through CT scans because, during the scan, it is possible to see whether there are neoplasms in the area of the pharynx and larynx, especially around the laryngeal cavity, ventricle, and vocal cords. Generally, if there are any growths, they will be visible on a CT scan. However, some early-stage laryngeal cancers, where the mucosa has just started to show changes, might be missed by CT scans. In such cases, it is generally recommended to also perform a laryngoscopic examination. If possible, conducting an NBI (Narrow Band Imaging) laryngoscopy could reveal early mucosal changes. If early-stage laryngeal cancer is confirmed by pathology, surgical or radiation treatment can be very effective and generally has a low chance of recurrence.

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Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
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Symptoms and Early Signs of Throat Cancer

Symptoms and signs of laryngeal cancer in patients mainly vary according to the different locations of the tumor in the larynx. Most patients with early-stage laryngeal cancer experience a foreign body sensation in the throat, which can be persistent. Patients may even feel a choking sensation when swallowing. Additionally, some patients with early-stage laryngeal cancer may experience unexplained hoarseness or coughing and choking when drinking water, and these symptoms generally do not respond well to oral medication. Some patients exhibit frequent coughing, and ordinary symptomatic cough treatments are ineffective. These are mostly early symptoms and signs. As the laryngeal cancer progresses, patients will experience a noticeable obstruction in the throat, along with symptoms like difficulty breathing.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Is throat cancer easy to treat?

Laryngeal cancer is a malignant tumor in the larynx, clinically mainly squamous cell carcinoma. Currently, the main treatment is comprehensive treatment centered around surgery, including surgical radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Laryngeal cancer can be completely cured if detected early. It is divided into three types: supraglottic, glottic, and subglottic cancer. Glottic cancer, due to the early and noticeable symptom of hoarseness, is usually detected early, thus the clinical treatment outcomes are relatively good. Therefore, laryngeal cancer is among the malignant tumors with relatively good treatment outcomes, and is considered relatively easy to treat. In summary, the current treatment outcomes for laryngeal cancer are still quite good.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What age does throat cancer generally occur?

Throat cancer is a relatively common type of malignant tumor in the head and neck region. It more commonly affects middle-aged or elderly men, with most patients being over 40 years old. Specific clinical symptoms vary among individuals, but common symptoms include sore throat and hoarseness. Some patients may experience difficulty breathing. In terms of treatment, surgery and radiation therapy are commonly used, and some patients may require a combination of comprehensive treatment plans. Regular follow-ups are necessary during the treatment process to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.