Laryngeal cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that begins in the larynx or "voice box" where your vocal cords are. There are three parts of the larynx: the supraglottis, glottis, and subglottis. Cancer cells can begin to grow in any of these areas. People most at risk for this type of cancer are heavy smokers and heavy drinkers of alcohol.
Cancer of the larynx often begins with dysplasia, a precancerous condition marked by abnormal development of cells. Dysplasia may advance to carcinoma in situ (CIS), in which cancerous cells are found in the lining of the larynx, but the cancer has not spread beyond this area. Cancer in this stage is still very treatable.
A person with laryngeal cancer may experience certain symptoms, such as:
Although these symptoms are similar to those of many other conditions, they may indicate something more serious, especially if you are at high risk for this type of cancer. If you have symptoms that are concerning you, be sure to talk with your doctor. The doctor will perform a physical exam and review of your medical history, and may also recommend certain tests, such as:
Once the results of your test are back, your doctor will go over them with you. If cancer is detected, your doctor will also discuss your treatment options. Treatment for laryngeal cancer depends on the size of the tumor and the stage of the disease (how far it has progressed), and usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes, surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy is used to fight almost every type of cancer. Oncologists (cancer doctors) prescribe and give chemotherapy as part of your individual treatment plan.
At Main Line Health, our expert radiation oncologists use the latest technology to give you powerful, precise treatment.
Tracheotomy may be performed if there is an obstruction in your upper airway or if you are not able to breathe on your own, such as after an injury to the head.
With advances in medicine, millions of people are living with cancer than ever before. For that reason, we established The Survivorship Program—a program designed to help patients transition to life following treatment, by alleviating some of their common concerns.
Main Line Health otolaryngology and audiology experts treat and manage conditions affecting your ears, nose and throat at locations in the Philadelphia area.
From diagnosis and throughout treatment, Main Line Health cancer specialists (oncologists) provide compassionate care for you and your loved ones through all stages of cancer treatment.
Whether you are fighting cancer or managing a blood disorder, the hematologists and oncologists at Main Line Health offer the comprehensive care you need.
