2023-12-26 08:00:00
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A tumor in the throat can remain undetected for a long time. This makes it all the more important to take initial signs such as swollen lymph nodes on the neck seriously.
Throat cancer (pharyngeal carcinoma) is a head and neck tumor and can arise in three areas of the throat (pharynx): in the nasal cavity up to the palate (nasopharynx), inside the mouth up to the tonsils (oropharynx) and in the lowest part of the throat to the air and esophagus (hypopharynx). Malignant throat cancer most commonly occurs in the oral cavity in the oropharynx area. The symptoms can be non-specific for a long time, so people who smoke and regularly consume alcohol should pay attention to possible changes in the mucous membrane.
According to the German Cancer Society (DKG) Every year in Germany, men are more likely to be affected, with around 9,350 people affected, compared to women with around 3,740 cases of the disease. At the time of diagnosis, men are on average 63 years old and women are 66 years old.
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Throat cancer – first signs and symptoms
According to the “German Cancer Society”, an increasing frequency of throat cancer is being recorded among increasingly younger patients. The reason is the increasing infection rate worldwide – including in Germany – with the HP virus, which promotes cancer. © BRUNO / IMAGE POINT FR / BSIP / Imago
Cancer of the throat (pharynx) can remain undetected for a long time. The first sign is often swollen lymph nodes – especially on one side of the neck. Tumors in the nasal cavity area can become noticeable through a persistent runny nose or often lead to nosebleeds. Difficulty swallowing and a sore throat can be an indication of oral cavity cancer (oral cavity carcinoma) in the oropharynx and hypopharynx. If the symptoms last longer than two weeks, they should be checked by a doctor. Basically, the earlier a possible tumor is discovered, the better the chances of recovery. However, the complaints mentioned do not always mean a serious illness.
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Other symptoms of a throat tumor can include:
- Swelling, ulcers or discoloration of the mouth or throat (white or red) that are painful or cause no discomfort
- Increased salivation
- Bleeding in the mouth
- Discomfort when chewing
- Burning of the tongue
- The feeling of a “lump” in the throat, which also makes it difficult to speak
- Scratchy throat
- hoarseness
- Ear pain
- Bad breath
- Numbness in the mouth, for example on the tongue or palate
- weight loss
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Diagnosis of throat cancer
If symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult an ear, nose and throat doctor (ENT). If there are any abnormalities or possible suspicions, this will initiate certain investigations. An important part of the examination should initially be a detailed preliminary discussion (anamnesis), through which lifestyle, risk factors and possible family predisposition can be queried. The doctor will then examine the oral cavity, nasal cavity or throat using appropriate tools. This means that abnormalities in deeper areas of the inside of the nose or throat can also be checked.
What characterizes the majority of throat cancer tumors?
The majority of malignant tumors (over 90 percent) in the head and neck area originate from the mucous membrane cells and are so-called squamous cell carcinomas.
If the tumor is already advanced and may have already spread, an ultrasound examination (sonography) of the neck with enlarged lymph nodes can provide information. Cells can be removed from the swollen lymph nodes using a thin needle (fine needle puncture) and examined under a microscope.
Whether there is actually a tumor can ultimately be determined by a mirror (endoscopy) with tissue removal (biopsy) under anesthesia. This also allows the biological properties of the tumor to be determined, which is important for the choice of therapy. If the suspicion is confirmed and cancer is present, computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to determine the extent of the tumor and possible secondary tumors (metastases) in other organs, such as the lungs.
Treatment options for throat cancer
Treatment planning depends primarily on the stage and type of tumor. Specialists from various forms of treatment will work together to develop a therapy concept that takes into account the results of the histological diagnosis, the size, location and spread of the tumor (TNM) as well as the patient’s age and state of health. The first-choice treatment methods for throat cancer – as well as for other types of cancer, such as stomach cancer and colon cancer – are surgery, radiation (radiotherapy) and chemotherapy. In the best case scenario, a tumor in the mouth or throat area can be completely removed surgically with the aim of healing (resection).
Depending on the stage of the cancer, it may be necessary to supplement the operation with radiation or chemotherapy. During radiation therapy (radiotherapy), ionizing radiation delivered from outside destroys the nucleus of the cancer cells.
Targeted therapies and new treatment methods such as immunotherapy (targeted therapy) with growth-inhibiting antibodies, for example, are increasingly being integrated into the current treatment concept. The advantage of these forms of therapy is that they do not involve cell toxins like chemotherapy drugs. For the treatment of head and neck tumors is a targeted drug, with the so-called monoclonal antibody cetuximabapproved as a possible adjunct to radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
Prognosis and course of throat cancer
The chance of recovery and possible life expectancy in patients with mouth and throat cancer depends on various factors, such as the size of the tumor and whether it has already formed secondary metastases into surrounding tissue or organs. In addition, the general state of health of the individual must be taken into account – this also influences the success of the therapy. Patients should discuss in detail with their treating doctor which treatment options are possible. As with most cancers, such as lung cancer, the earlier the tumor is discovered, the greater the chance of successful treatment and possible cure for throat cancer. The success of cancer treatment is also determined by regular follow-up examinations and the reduction in the risk of a relapse.
Throat cancer – causes and risk factors
Heavy alcohol consumption, especially drinks containing high alcohol content, and regular smoking are among the most important triggers and risk factors. About four out of five patients with oral cancer are smokers.
Similar to cervical cancer, the risk of infection with the human papilloma virus also increases with throat cancer.
In addition, regular contact with certain pollutants such as asbestos or paints and varnishes containing chrome and nickel can promote the development of mouth and throat cancer.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions regarding throat cancer
What does throat cancer look like?
Throat cancer can manifest itself as swelling, ulcers and whitish to reddish discoloration in the oral cavity or throat.
Is throat cancer curable?
Depending on how far the tumor has progressed, whether metastases have already formed and what the chances of success with treatment are, throat cancer can be curable.
How is throat cancer diagnosed?
As a rule, an ear, nose and throat doctor can detect abnormalities through certain examinations such as palpation, ultrasound and mirroring. A tissue removal (biopsy) under anesthesia as well as computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirm the growth and extent of a malignant tumor.
Sources
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This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions regarding medical conditions.
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