Cancer of the Larynx

Introduction:

Cancer of the larynx, also known as laryngeal cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the larynx, which is the voice box. It is the second most common type of head and neck cancer, after cancer of the oral cavity.

Symptoms:

The most common symptom of laryngeal cancer is a change in voice, such as hoarseness or a loss of voice. Other symptoms may include:

• A lump or mass in the neck
• Difficulty swallowing
• Pain in the throat or ear
• Coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath
• Weight loss

Causes:

The exact cause of laryngeal cancer is unknown, but there are several risk factors that can increase the risk of developing the disease, including:

• Smoking
• Drinking alcohol
• Exposure to asbestos
• Certain viral infections, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV)

Diagnosis:

Laryngeal cancer is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, biopsy, and imaging tests. A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the larynx and examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells.

Treatment:

The treatment for laryngeal cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the patient's overall health, and their preferences. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy

Prognosis:

The prognosis for laryngeal cancer depends on the stage of the disease at diagnosis and the patient's response to treatment. The five-year survival rate for laryngeal cancer is about 60%.

Prevention:

There is no sure way to prevent laryngeal cancer, but there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the disease, including:

• Quitting smoking
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Avoiding exposure to asbestos
• Getting vaccinated against HPV