Nasopharyngeal cancer, also known as nasopharyngeal carcinoma, is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat behind the nose. The nasopharynx is the uppermost part of the pharynx and is located behind the nose and above the soft palate. This type of cancer is relatively rare and is most common among people of Southeast Asian, North African, and Arctic Indigenous descent.
Symptoms of Nasopharyngeal Cancer
The most common symptom of nasopharyngeal cancer is a persistent sore throat or pain in the neck and throat. Other symptoms may include ear pain, a feeling of a lump in the throat, a blocked nose, difficulty swallowing, a hoarse voice, and hearing loss. In its advanced stages, nasopharyngeal cancer may cause facial swelling, difficulty breathing, and bleeding from the nose.
Diagnosis of Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Nasopharyngeal cancer is usually diagnosed with a physical examination and imaging tests. A doctor may use a flexible endoscope to examine the back of the throat and take a biopsy. A biopsy is a procedure in which a sample of tissue is removed from the area and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. Other imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans, may also be used to diagnose nasopharyngeal cancer.
Treatment of Nasopharyngeal Cancer
The most common treatment for nasopharyngeal cancer is radiation therapy. This type of therapy involves using high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. In some cases, chemotherapy may be used in combination with radiation therapy to treat nasopharyngeal cancer. Surgery may also be used to remove the cancerous tissue.
Prognosis of Nasopharyngeal Cancer
The prognosis for nasopharyngeal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the person's overall health. In general, the earlier the cancer is detected, the better the prognosis. With early diagnosis and treatment, the five-year survival rate for people with nasopharyngeal cancer is over 80%. However, the survival rates can vary depending on the stage of the cancer and the person's overall health.