laryngeal carcinoma

Laryngeal Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Overview

Laryngeal carcinoma, also known as laryngeal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the larynx (voice box). The larynx is a critical part of the throat responsible for breathing, swallowing, and talking. This condition occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues of the larynx.

Types of Laryngeal Carcinoma

Most laryngeal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which begin in flat, thin cells called squamous cells that cover the inside of the larynx [6]. These cells can become cancerous due to various factors such as tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption. Other rare forms of laryngeal cancer include salivary gland cancers, sarcomas (cancers arising from muscle, cartilage, or other structural tissues), and adenocarcinomas.

Symptoms and Staging

The primary symptom of laryngeal carcinoma is a hoarse voice that persists for more than three weeks [5]. Other symptoms may include changes in the voice, difficulty swallowing, and breathing difficulties. The staging system for laryngeal cancer varies depending on the subdivision of the larynx affected (supraglottis, glottis, or subglottis) [11].

Incidence and Treatment

Laryngeal cancers represent one-third of all head and neck cancers and are a significant source of morbidity and mortality. Approximately 13,000 cases of laryngeal cancer are diagnosed every year in the United States [12]. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, which may involve surgical procedures to preserve the patient's voice.

Stages of Laryngeal Cancer

The tumor's extent determines the stage of laryngeal cancer. T3 laryngeal cancer means the tumor is limited to the larynx, while T4 laryngeal cancer indicates that the tumor has spread beyond the larynx [13].

Key Statistics and Facts

• Most laryngeal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas.
• Laryngeal cancers represent one-third of all head and neck cancers.
• Approximately 13,000 cases of laryngeal cancer are diagnosed every year in the United States.

Sources:

[1] - [15] (refer to the context provided)

Common Signs and Symptoms of Laryngeal Carcinoma

Laryngeal carcinoma, a type of cancer that affects the voice box (larynx), can exhibit various signs and symptoms. These may include:

• Hoarseness or changes in voice: This is often one of the earliest and most common symptoms of laryngeal carcinoma, lasting longer than a few weeks [5][9].
• Sore throat: A persistent sore throat that doesn't go away can be an indication of laryngeal cancer [3][8].
• Coughing: A cough that persists for more than 3 weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms like hoarseness, pain when swallowing, and shortness of breath [6][11].
• Trouble swallowing (dysphagia): Difficulty in swallowing food or liquids can be a symptom of laryngeal cancer [7][12].
• Shortness of breath: In some cases, laryngeal carcinoma can cause breathing difficulties due to the tumor's location and size [4][14].
• Pain when swallowing (odynophagia): Pain while eating or swallowing can be a symptom of laryngeal cancer [11].
• Lump in the neck or throat: A lump or swelling in the neck or throat area can indicate laryngeal cancer, especially if accompanied by other symptoms [8][12].

It's essential to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, and a proper diagnosis should only be made by a healthcare professional. If you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period, it is crucial to consult with a doctor for an accurate evaluation.

References: [1] - [15] correspond to the search results provided in the context.

Diagnostic Tests for Laryngeal Carcinoma

Laryngeal carcinoma, also known as throat cancer, can be diagnosed using various tests and procedures. Here are some of the diagnostic tests used to diagnose laryngeal carcinoma:

• Direct Laryngoscopy: This procedure involves placing a tube with a camera into the throat to examine the larynx and take a biopsy [4]. It is often the first test in a laryngeal cancer diagnosis.
• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as CT, MRI, and PET scans may help determine the extent of the cancer beyond the surface of the throat or voice box [3]. These tests can show a tumor's size and location, as well as whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
• Biopsy: A biopsy involves removing a tissue sample from the larynx for examination under a microscope. It is an essential test in diagnosing laryngeal carcinoma [11].
• Laryngoscopy: Laryngoscopy is a procedure that puts a small tube into the throat to look at the larynx (voice box) [12]. It can be used to examine the larynx and take a biopsy.
• Panendoscopy: Panendoscopy examines the larynx, esophagus (food pipe), and windpipe. A biopsy may also be taken during this procedure [11].
• Blood Tests: Blood tests may be performed to check for any abnormalities in the blood that could indicate cancer [9].

These diagnostic tests can help confirm a diagnosis of laryngeal carcinoma and determine its stage, which is essential in planning treatment.

References:

[3] Imaging tests are not used to diagnose laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancers, but they're done for a number of reasons after a cancer diagnosis, such as To look at suspicious areas that might be cancer. [4] Laryngeal cancer is often diagnosed with a test called "direct laryngoscopy." This procedure involves placing a tube with a camera into your throat to examine your larynx and take a biopsy. [11] Other diagnostic tests for laryngeal cancer include a laryngoscopy, a panendoscopy, and biopsies. A panednoscopy examines the larynx, esophagus (food pipe), and windpipe. A biopsy removes a tissue sample from the larynx. [12] Laryngoscopy is a procedure that puts a small tube into the throat to look at the larynx (voice box).

Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy for Laryngeal Carcinoma

Laryngeal carcinoma, a type of cancer that affects the larynx (voice box), can be treated with various drug therapies. Chemotherapy is one such treatment option.

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of anti-cancer drugs to kill cancer cells. For laryngeal carcinoma, chemotherapy may be used alone or in combination with other treatments like radiation therapy. Common chemotherapy drugs used for this type of cancer include cisplatin, fluorouracil, capecitabine, carboplatin, and others [5][9].
• Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy involves the use of specific medications that target certain proteins or genes involved in cancer growth. For laryngeal carcinoma, targeted therapy drugs like cetuximab (Erbitux) may be used to manage the disease [2][6].

Treatment Approaches

The treatment approach for laryngeal carcinoma depends on various factors, including the stage and location of the cancer.

• Advanced Laryngeal Cancer: For advanced-stage laryngeal cancer, chemotherapy is often used in combination with radiation therapy (chemoradiation) [9].
• Second-Line Treatment: In cases where the disease progresses or recurs after initial treatment, second-line chemotherapy may be given [8].

Commonly Used Drugs

Some of the commonly used drugs for treating laryngeal carcinoma include:

• Cetuximab (Erbitux): This targeted therapy drug is often used to treat laryngeal cancer that has spread outside the larynx [3].
• Cisplatin: This chemotherapy drug is a common first-line treatment for most laryngeal cancers, often combined with other drugs like 5-fluorouracil or paclitaxel [15].

References

[1] Context result 1 [2] Context result 3 [3] Context result 6 [5] Context result 5 [8] Context result 9 [9] Context result 11 [15] Context result 15