-
Emergency
-
Apollo Lifeline
-
Emergency
Emergency
Verified By January 13, 2025
Introduction
Laryngeal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the larynx, commonly known as the voice box. The larynx is located in the throat and plays a crucial role in breathing, speaking, and swallowing. Laryngeal cancer can develop in different parts of the larynx, including the glottis (where the vocal cords are located), the supraglottis (above the vocal cords), and the subglottis (below the vocal cords).
Persistent hoarseness or changes in the voice that last longer than two weeks is one of the most common early symptoms.
A persistent sore throat that doesn’t go away with usual treatment.
Trouble swallowing or a feeling that something is stuck in the throat.
A persistent cough that doesn’t improve, sometimes accompanied by coughing up blood.
Ear pain that occurs without an ear infection, especially if it is persistent.
Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing (stridor) may occur if the tumor obstructs the airway.
Swelling or a lump in the neck due to enlarged lymph nodes.
The exact cause of laryngeal cancer is not always known, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing this cancer:
This type affects the vocal cords (glottis) and is the most common form of laryngeal cancer. It often presents with early symptoms like hoarseness.
This type occurs above the vocal cords in the upper part of the larynx. It may cause symptoms like difficulty swallowing or a lump in the neck.
This rare type occurs below the vocal cords in the lower part of the larynx. It is mostly diagnosed at a later stage due to fewer early symptoms.
Laryngeal cancer is staged based on the size of the tumor, whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes, and whether it has metastasized to other parts of the body:
The cancer is limited to the inner lining of the larynx and has not spread. It is highly treatable at this stage.
The cancer is confined to one area of the larynx and the vocal cords can still move normally. It has not spread to lymph nodes or distant sites.
The cancer has spread to nearby areas of the larynx but has not affected lymph nodes or distant sites. Voice changes or difficulty swallowing may be present.
The cancer has spread to nearby tissues and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes. Voice and swallowing difficulties are more pronounced.
The cancer has spread to surrounding tissues, lymph nodes, or distant parts of the body. This is the most advanced stage and requires aggressive treatment.
A procedure that uses a scope to view the larynx and detect abnormalities.
A sample of tissue is taken from the larynx for examination under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans may be used to determine the extent of the cancer.
The prognosis for laryngeal cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis, the patient’s overall health, and the location of the cancer. Early-stage laryngeal cancer (Stages 0 and I) generally has a good prognosis, with high survival rates. Advanced stages (Stages III and IV) have a poorer prognosis, but aggressive treatment can still improve outcomes and manage symptoms.
Laryngeal cancer is a serious condition that requires early detection and prompt treatment. Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and stages of laryngeal cancer can help in recognizing the disease early and seeking timely medical attention. If you experience persistent hoarseness, throat pain, or any other symptoms associated with laryngeal cancer, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and possible diagnosis.
