Understanding The Disorder
Laryngeal cancer is a malignant growth of the larynx. The larynx is comprised of 3 parts: the supraglottis (upper part of the larynx above the true vocal folds, including the epiglottis), the glottis (the true vocal folds), and the subglottis (the lower part of the larynx between the true vocal folds and the trachea). Depending on the location and specific type of malignant growth, the staging system and management are different. Smoking and alcohol consumption are common risk factors for laryngeal cancer.
Symptoms
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Noisy breathing (stridor)
- Neck mass
- Coughing up blood
- Ear pain
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
Diagnosis
Patient History
A history of the duration and progression of the aforementioned symptoms as well as an assessment of risk factors for cancer is taken.
Flexible Laryngoscopy
Careful examination of the larynx is essential to identify any abnormal mass in the larynx. Head and neck examination is also important to rule out masses elsewhere in the head and neck region such as enlarged lymph nodes.
Other investigations
Biopsy is key in confirming the diagnosis and type of cancer to tailor treatment. Imaging such as CT scans of the neck and chest with intravenous contrast will be obtained as an initial investigation to rule out tumor spread elsewhere in the body.
Treatment
Depending on the type and staging of laryngeal cancer, treatment can include chemoradiation therapy, surgery, or a combination of both. The decision on cancer treatment usually involves a multidisciplinary team including laryngologists, head and neck oncologists, radiologists, medical oncologists, dentists, and nutritionists.