Neoplasms are the abnormal growths of cells that multiply faster than normal which can either be cancerous or noncancerous. The laryngeal cancer is the malignant growth that develops in the tissues of the larynx which are associated with excessive drinking and the use of tobacco products. The larynx contains the vocal cords which are responsible for making the sound that echoes through the pharynx, mouth and the nose of an individual. Most of the laryngeal cancers develop in the squamous cells which line the inside of the larynx.
Risks and causes
The cause of Laryngeal cancer is not known in most cases but certain factors can increase an individual’s risk of developing it. This includes the excess alcohol consumption, smoking and the human papilloma virus (HPV). Additional risk factors include a poor diet lacking in vitamins and minerals along with the consumption of food high in processed and barbecued meat. Individuals with low immunity such as those with HIV, AIDS and patients who had organ transplant are also at risk of developing this cancer. One research suggests that as many as 8 out of 10 cases of laryngeal cancer can be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle.
Symptoms
Early detection is important for the treatment of cancer hence it is important to get medical evaluation particularly if symptoms appear to be worrying. Change in the voice such as hoarseness for more than 3 weeks can be an indication of laryngeal cancer and is one of the most common symptoms. The difficulty with swallowing also becomes evident with some experiencing the sensation of the crumb stuck, inability to swallow food or presenting burning sensation when swallowing. Weight loss is one of the common indications of several types of cancer including laryngeal cancer although this can appear in the advanced stage. Additional symptoms include bad smelling breath, ear ache, cough and shortness of breath that does not get better.
Diagnosis
Some of the tests that can determine the presence of laryngeal cancer include a physical examination that checks the throat and the neck for abnormalities and an MRI scan. A PET scan may also be required that involves injecting a small quantity of radioactive glucose into a vein that can detect the malignant tumor. Another procedure includes drinking the solution containing barium that coats the stomach and the oesophagus for X-ray to be taken. In addition, a biopsy may be required that includes a procedure called laryngoscopy that removes a sample of the affected tissue. Endoscopy involves a thin lighted tube that is inserted into the mouth to check for abnormality of the trachea, esophagus and the throat and to remove samples of tissues.
Treatment
The treatment options for laryngeal cancer consist of radiation therapy that uses high-energy x-rays to destroy the cancer cells, various surgical procedures such as cordectomy, partial laryngectomy, total laryngectomy or thyroidectomy to remove cancer. Treatment with chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy the cancer cells or to stop it from dividing.
References
https://www.cancer.gov/types/head-and-neck/patient/laryngeal-treatment-pdq#link/_1
http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/laryngeal-cancer/risks-causes
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/laryngeal-and-hypopharyngeal-cancer.html
