Laryngeal Cancer

Laryngeal Cancer is a cancer of the larynx.  The larynx also known as the voice box is located at the front of the neck. There are three main parts of the larynx they are: the supraglottis (top of larynx), the glottis (middle) and the subglottis (bottom) which connects to the windpipe.  The larynx is very important, its role is vital when it comes to talking, breathing and swallowing.  If a growth develops on the larynx they are often referred to as nodules or polyps.  Not all growths are cancerous.  If cancer is to occur in the larynx it often begins in the glottis.  These cancers are called squamous cell carcinomas.  People with certain risk factors are more likely to get laryngeal cancer.  Those risks are: Age (over 55), gender (males are more prone), race, smoking, alcohol, history of head and neck cancer, and occupation (exposure to sulfuric acid mist or nickel).  Symptoms can include: weight loss, bad breath, earache, hoarseness or other voice changes, problems breathing, lump in neck, cough that doesn’t go away and sore throat or feeling of something stuck in throat.  Diagnosis of laryngeal cancer can include: physical exam, indirect laryngoscopy, direct laryngoscopy, CT scan and biopsy. 

Cancer of the larynx is usually treated by radiation, surgery or chemotherapy.  Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is currently being studied to improve conditions among patients requiring laryngectomy due to cancer, as well as post-radiation head and neck patients.