Throat Cancer Causes And Symptoms

Throat cancer is not a definite medical disorder but a term commonly used as an indication of any type of cancer from the back of the mouth, the upper part of the esophagus and the larynx. The most common places for throat cancer are the larynx (larynx) and the pharynx, where the upper part of the esophagus and larynx meet (the lower part is called hypopharynx).

Since the hypopharynx is around the larynx, tumors that appear on either side can quickly affect the other side. Therefore, these forms of cancer, despite being technically different, are often discussed at the same time as the appearance and treatment are comparable. Although there are many rare forms of throat cancer, most forms start from the cells that cling the throat and called pancreatic cells. Therefore, these forms of cancer are called squamous cell carcinomas (PCC).



HOW OFTEN DOES IT OCCUR?

In 2012, nearly 300,000 new cases of larynx cancer were diagnosed worldwide, placing it 13th on the list of most common men's diseases. The number of cases of hypopharyngeal cancer is much lower. The number of cases of throat cancer in the different countries varies considerably, although it occurs much more frequently in men than women. This is a reflection of the differences in exposure to the risk factors known to cause throat cancer. Throat cancer occurs more often in people over 55 years, although younger patients may develop tumors in these places.

THROAT CANCER CAUSES (RISK FACTORS)

Over 80% of all cases of throat cancer is caused by smoking and alcohol use. The higher the exposure to these risk factors (both in terms of quantity and duration), the higher the risk of cancer. However, not all smokers who get throat cancer are overweight smokers or drinkers and underlying genetic disorders clearly play an important role. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) may increase the risk of developing throat cancer, although this risk is not as great as for other forms of major cancers. A diet pattern with many processed foods and little fresh fruit and vegetables may also increase the risk of developing throat cancer.

THROAT CANCER SYMPTOMS

Because the larynx and the upper part of the esophagus are adjacent to each other, the symptoms that patients experience as a result of cancer on either side are comparable. The most common symptoms are a constant change of voice (it lasts longer than 3 weeks or less) or problems with food swallowing (often solid food is a problem rather than fluids). Further symptoms may be:

• Sore throat
• Prolonged ear pain (especially if only one ear is affected)
• Noisy or difficulty breathing
• Unwanted weight loss
• Coughing up blood
• A nodule in the neck

THROAT CANCER DIAGNOSIS

Many of the symptoms described above may occur due to other non-malignant conditions. However, it is important that a physician who specializes in head cancers examines anyone with long-term persistent symptoms. This usually means that a doctor decreases an extensive history and examines the mouth, throat, and neck in the clinic.

Cancer of the larynx and the upper part of the esophagus are difficult to investigate and therefore it may also be necessary to undergo a comprehensive examination with endoscopy under general anesthesia. During this endoscopy, biopsies can be taken of potential suspect areas to confirm the diagnosis. In addition, radiographic imaging research of the neck and throat can be performed with ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine the size and expansion of any tumor and to see if the lymph nodes are in the neck affected. There are no blood tests for diagnosing cancer of the larynx or hypopharynx. However, these can be performed as part of a more general assessment prior to overall anesthesia.

*Image source : Flickr

References :

1. National Cancer Institute
2. Mayo Clinic
3. American Cancer Society