Laryngeal Cancer (Voice Box)

Why choose us for Laryngeal Cancer (Voice Box)?

What you need to know about Laryngeal Cancer

Laryngeal Cancer is a Disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the Larynx.
The larynx is located in the throat at the top of the windpipe (trachea). It contains the vocal cords that vibrate to produce sound when you talk, swallow, or breathe.
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The most common type, originating in the flat cells lining the inside of the larynx.
  • Adenocarcinoma: Arises from the glandular cells of the larynx.
  • Sarcoma: Rare, starts in the connective tissues (muscles or cartilage) of the larynx.
  • Lymphoma: Also rare, starts in the lymphatic tissue of the larynx.
  • Others: Including minor types like verrucous carcinoma, basaloid squamous cell carcinoma, etc.
  • Tobacco Use: Particularly smoking, which increases the risk significantly.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Especially heavy and long-term drinking.
  • Combined Use: Smoking and heavy alcohol use together increase the risk more than either alone.
  • Age: Laryngeal cancer occurs most often in people over 55.
  • Gender: Men are much more likely to develop laryngeal cancer than women.
  • Exposure to Certain Chemicals: Such as asbestos, wood dust, paint fumes, etc.
  • Persistent Hoarseness or Voice Changes
  • Sore Throat or Pain in the Ear
  • Difficulty Swallowing
  • Persistent Cough or Coughing up Blood
  • Lump or Swelling in the Neck
  • Trouble Breathing
  • Unexplained Weight Loss
  • Physical Examination: Including examination of the throat and neck.
  • Endoscopy: Using a flexible tube with a camera to examine the larynx.
  • Biopsy: Taking a tissue sample for examination under a microscope to confirm cancer.
  • Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRI, PET scans to determine the extent of cancer.
  • Surgery: Removal of the tumor or part or all of the larynx (laryngectomy).
  • Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
  • Chemotherapy: Medications to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
  • Targeted Therapy: Drugs targeting specific abnormalities in cancer cells.
  • Combination Therapy: Often, a combination of treatments is used.
  • Survival Rates: Vary widely depending on the stage at diagnosis and treatment.
  • Early Stage: Higher survival rates, especially if cancer hasn’t spread beyond the larynx.
  • Advanced Stage: Lower survival rates, but treatment can still help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
  • Overall Prognosis: Improving with advances in treatment and early detection.
  • Quit Smoking: This is the most important step in prevention.
  • Limit Alcohol Consumption: Moderation is key.
  • Healthy Diet: Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk.
  • Protective Gear: If working in environments with harmful chemicals or dust, use appropriate protection.
  • Five-Year Survival Rate: Around 60-80% for localized cancers (cancer that hasn’t spread outside the larynx).
  • Advanced Stages: The survival rate decreases significantly if cancer has spread to surrounding tissues or distant organs.
  • Survival rates are estimates: They can vary based on various factors including the stage, treatment, overall health, etc.

Regular medical check-ups and early detection are crucial for improving survival rates and treatment outcomes in laryngeal cancer.