Laryngeal cancer is a type of throat cancer that affects larynx. The larynx is voice box. It contains cartilage and muscles that enable some one to talk.
This type of cancer can damage voice. When not treated quickly, it may spread to other parts of body.
SYMPTOMS OF LARYNGEAL CANCER
Unlike other types of cancer, the symptoms of laryngeal cancer are fairly easy to detect. Some of the most common signs include:
- Hoarse voice
- breathing difficulties
- excessive coughing
- cough with blood
- neck pain
- Sore throat
- ear pain
- trouble swallowing food
- neck swelling
- neck lumps
- sudden weight loss
CAUSES OF LARYNGEAL CANCER
Throat cancer typically occurs when healthy cells sustain damage and begin to overgrow. These cells can turn into tumors. Laryngeal cancers are tumors that originate in voice box.
The mutations that damage cells in larynx are often due to smoking. They can also be the result of:
- Heavy alcohol use
- Poor nutrition
- Human Papillomavirus exposure
- Immune system problems
- Workplace exposure to toxins, such as asbestos
- Certain genetic diseases, such as Fanconi anemia
RISK FACTORS
Certain lifestyle factors increase risk of developing laryngeal cancer. These include:
- smoking
- chewing tobacco
- not eating enough fruits and vegetables
- consuming large quantities of processed foods
- drinking alcohol
- exposure to asbestos
- a family history of throat cancer
Staging
- T refers to the size of the primary tumor and if it has invaded surrounding tissue.
- N is used to identify how far the cancer has spread to lymph nodes.
- M indicates whether the cancer has metastasized or spread into other organs or more distant lymph nodes.