Can throat cancer be detected by a CT scan?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on November 06, 2024
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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 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 Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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Recurrence rate after total laryngectomy for throat cancer

Laryngeal cancer is a common disease in otolaryngology and a relatively prevalent malignant tumor. Patients who undergo total laryngectomy often have advanced laryngeal tumors, which block the esophagus or pharynx and have tumor tissues too large for partial removal. The likelihood of recurrence after tumor resection varies from patient to patient, depending on the radiotherapy and chemotherapy administered post-operatively, as well as individual physical constitutions, which can alter recurrence rates. Generally, we recommend that patients undergo a laryngoscopic check-up every three to six months and a CT scan of the larynx post-surgery, to enable timely detection and treatment, aiming for early control and intervention in case of potential recurrence.

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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What causes throat cancer?

Throat cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the throat area. Its causes are not clear, but it is generally associated with long-term smoking, drinking, exposure to toxic and carcinogenic substances, as well as gastrointestinal dysfunction, acid reflux irritation, prolonged loud speaking, staying up late, fatigue, and malignant transformation of benign tumors, which lead to symptoms in the throat area. It causes persistent hoarseness in patients, and the symptoms progressively worsen. Patients may also experience a foreign body sensation in the throat, a feeling of blockage, a burning sensation, and sometimes difficulty swallowing. Patients should first go to the hospital for a detailed examination with an electronic laryngoscope, which can reveal cauliflower-like neoplasms or ulcers in any part of the throat. If such findings are present, a local biopsy is needed. If the biopsy confirms the presence of a malignant tumor, local surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy is required for treatment.

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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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Can throat cancer be contagious?

Laryngeal cancer is not contagious. Current medical evidence and research indicate that laryngeal cancer does not have a definitive contagious nature. There are many factors involved in the onset of laryngeal cancer, and clinically, the possible inducing factors have not been completely determined yet. These factors may include having a family history, or frequent exposure to radioactive or chemical substances, as well as potentially due to long-term smoking and drinking, which are risk factors that could lead to the disease. Overall, the exact cause of the disease is not particularly clear, but regardless of the factor, no contagious nature has been found. Therefore, laryngeal cancer is not infectious and is not considered a communicable disease. In terms of treatment, surgery is primarily considered, and some cases may also require consideration of radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Generally, it is regarded as a relatively common malignant tumor of the head and neck.