Cancer of the larynx

From ArticleWorld

Cancer of the larynx, or laryngeal cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in any part of the larynx. Squamos cells make up a large part of the cells of the larynx, so it is not surprising that laryngeal cancers are primarily squamos cell carcinomas. The three stages of laryngeal cancer affect three areas of the larynx. Stage one is cancer of the glottis, stage two is cancer of the supraglotts, and stage three is cancer of the subglottis.

Most laryngeal cancers are related to smoking, especially in the Western world. Consuming large amounts of alcohol also a risk for laryngeal cancer. If a person smokes and consumes a large amount of alcohol in combination with smoking, the risks of laryngeal cancer is greatly increased. Males over 55 from a poorer socioeconomic background seem to be at greatest risk.

Symptoms

Symptoms of laryngeal cancer are influenced by the size and location of the tumor. Hoarseness, a lump in the neck, voice changes, sore throat, cough, stridor. A feeling of something stuck in the throat, earache, and bad breath are some of the symptoms of cancer. The only way to be sure that these symptoms are actually cancer and not something else are to see a doctor.

Diagnosis includes a medical history, examination, x-ray, various scans and tissue biopsy. A referral to a throat specialist may be made. The specialist may use a laryngoscope, which is a fiber-optic endoscope is inserted in to the nasal passages to see the pharynx and larynx. The test is quick and painless.

Treatment

Removal of the tumor under general anesthesia treats Cancer of the larynx. Frequently the surgeons will be able to determine the tumor and remove e it completely. More advanced tumors may require radiation and chemotherapy treatment.