What is Laryngeal Cancer?

Laryngeal cancer is a cancerous condition affecting different areas of the throat, larynx, or voice box. Most commonly cancer affects the glottis, or vocal cords, where a tumor may develop. Less common sites of laryngeal cancer include the areas above and below the vocal cords, which are called the supraglottis and subglottis areas. The condition leads to hoarseness of the voice, coughing, foul breath, and swallowing difficulties.

Risks

The most common risk factors for this condition are smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, especially in combination. A throat infection caused by the sexually-transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV) can harm the cells of the voice box, leading to this type of cancer. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, where contents of the stomach are regurgitated, can irritate the lining of the voice box, increasing the risk of laryngeal cancer.

Symptoms

Typical symptoms include vocal hoarseness, sore throat, ear pain, persistent coughing, and halitosis. Difficulties swallowing may occur due to a tumor that restricts the throat’s passageway.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis consists of evaluating a person’s lifestyle habits and carrying out a physical examination. X-rays, CT, or MRI scans may be carried out and a biopsy (tissue sample) is often taken.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the size and type of cancer, and whether it has spread. This information indicates the ‘stage’ of cancer. Treatment involves surgery to remove cancer and may be radiotherapy or chemotherapy or a combination of both. The treating doctor can give the best advice as to treatment on an individual basis.

Prevention

Quitting drinking and smoking may prevent tumor development. People undergoing treatment who stop drinking and smoking may be able to prevent a second tumor from developing.
Treatment of the gastroesophageal disease may reduce the risk of laryngeal cancer. A vaccine for the human papillomavirus is available. The ability of this vaccine to prevent laryngeal cancer is still under investigation.

Other names for laryngeal cancer

• Cancer of the larynx
• Laryngeal carcinoma
• Vocal cord cancer

##‍ What is Laryngeal Cancer?



**Definition:**

Laryngeal cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that affects ⁢the⁤ larynx, ⁤also known as the voice box. It ‌occurs when malignant (cancerous)⁣ cells develop in the tissue⁢ of the larynx⁢ [[1]].



**Causes:**

The exact cause of laryngeal cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors‌ have been identified:



* **Tobacco​ use:** Smoking and smokeless tobacco are major risk ‍factors

* **Alcohol consumption:** ‌Excessive alcohol intake can increase the risk

* **Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection:** Certain types of ​HPV are linked ⁢to laryngeal cancer

* **Diet:** A diet low⁣ in fruits‍ and vegetables⁣ may contribute to the risk

* ‍**Occupational exposure:** Exposure‍ to certain chemicals, such as asbestos and ​wood dust, can increase the risk



**Symptoms:**

Common symptoms​ of laryngeal ​cancer include:



* Hoarseness or‌ changes in⁤ voice

* ⁣Persistent cough

* Difficulty swallowing

* Pain or discomfort in the ⁢throat or neck

* Earache or ​hearing loss

* Swollen ⁣lymph nodes in the neck



**Diagnosis:**

Laryngeal cancer is diagnosed through⁣ a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as laryngoscopy and biopsy.



**Treatment:**

Treatment options for laryngeal‍ cancer depend on the stage ⁢and location of​ the cancer. Common ⁢treatments‌ include:



*‍ **Surgery:** ⁣Removal of the cancerous tissue

* **Radiotherapy:** High-energy⁢ X-rays to kill cancer cells

* ‌**Chemotherapy:** Drugs to kill cancer cells

* **Targeted⁣ therapy:** Treatments that specifically target cancerous cells

* **Laser‍ surgery:** Using⁤ a laser to remove or shrink ​tumors

* **Voice restoration:** Rehabilitation to improve voice ⁢function after treatment



**Success of⁢ Treatment:**

The ‍success of treatment depends‌ on several factors, including the ‍stage and location of the ​cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient. Early detection⁤ and treatment improve the ⁣chances ​of a successful outcome.



**Additional Information:**

Laryngeal cancer is a serious but treatable condition. By understanding ‌the risk factors, symptoms, and​ treatment⁤ options, individuals can take steps to reduce their risk and seek prompt medical attention ⁢if necessary.