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Laryngeal Cancer
Laryngeal Cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that originates in the larynx, commonly known as the voice box.
Laryngeal Cancer
What is Laryngeal Cancer?
Laryngeal Cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that originates in the larynx, commonly known as the voice box. Located in the throat, the larynx plays an essential role in breathing, voice production, and preventing food from entering the windpipe. At Konkan Cancer Hospital (KCH), our team of specialized oncologists provides comprehensive and compassionate care for patients diagnosed with laryngeal cancer.
How Does Laryngeal Cancer Develop?
Laryngeal Cancer occurs when the healthy cells in the lining of the larynx undergo genetic mutations that cause them to grow abnormally and uncontrollably. These abnormal cells may form a tumor and can invade nearby tissues. If not treated early, the cancer can metastasize (spread) to nearby lymph nodes, the lungs, or bones. Our experts at KCC utilize advanced diagnostic tools to detect and manage the disease effectively in its earliest stages.
Risk Factors and Causes
Several factors are known to increase the risk of developing laryngeal cancer:
Tobacco Use: The leading cause; both smoking and chewing tobacco increase risk.
Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use combined with smoking significantly increases risk.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus): HPV infection, especially strain 16, is associated with laryngeal cancers.
Exposure to Industrial Chemicals: Asbestos, wood dust, paint fumes, and chemicals.
Poor Diet: Deficiencies in fruits, vegetables, and essential micronutrients.
Age and Gender: Most commonly found in males aged 55 and above.
Family History: A genetic predisposition to head and neck cancers.
Chronic Acid Reflux: GERD can irritate the lining of the larynx over time.
Stages & Grades of Laryngeal Cancer
Konkan Cancer Center follows globally accepted staging systems such as TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) to assess the extent of the disease.
Stages:
Stage I: Cancer limited to a small part of the larynx with no node involvement.
Stage II: Spread to another area within the larynx but still localized.
Stage III: Involvement of nearby tissues and/or lymph nodes.
Stage IV: Advanced disease that has spread to distant organs.
Grades:
Low Grade (Well-differentiated): Slow-growing tumors.
High Grade (Poorly differentiated): Aggressive and fast-spreading.
Symptoms of Laryngeal Cancer
Early symptoms may resemble common throat infections, making early diagnosis essential. Look out for:
Persistent hoarseness or voice change
Sore throat or dry cough lasting more than 2 weeks
Painful swallowing or difficulty eating
Lump or swelling in the neck
Ear pain without infection
Shortness of breath or noisy breathing
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or weakness
If you are experiencing any of these signs, don’t delay. Schedule a consultation with Konkan Cancer Center head and neck cancer specialists.
Types of Laryngeal Cancer
Depending on the area of the larynx affected, there are three main types:
Glottic Cancer: Affects the vocal cords – most common and often detected early due to voice changes.
Supraglottic Cancer: Arises above the vocal cords – more likely to spread to lymph nodes.
Subglottic Cancer: Originates below the vocal cords – rare and often diagnosed late.
Diagnosis at Konkan Cancer Hospital
At Konkan Cancer Center, we offer state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to confirm and stage laryngeal cancer:
Physical Examination: Palpation of the neck, throat, and oral cavity.
Flexible Laryngoscopy: A thin tube with a camera is inserted through the nose to inspect the larynx.
Biopsy: A definitive test to examine cells under a microscope.
CT/MRI Scans: Assess the size, spread, and involvement of surrounding tissues.
PET-CT Scan: For whole-body evaluation and staging.
Endoscopy: Helps evaluate the upper airway and esophagus if spread is suspected.
Gold Standard: A biopsy remains the most accurate test for diagnosis and is mandatory before initiating treatment.
Treatment Options for Laryngeal Cancer at Konkan Cancer Center
Treatment depends on the type, stage, location, and patient’s overall health. At Konkan Cancer Center, we ensure personalized, evidence-based care with the latest therapies.
1. Surgery
Partial Laryngectomy: Removes part of the voice box, preserving speech.
Total Laryngectomy: Complete removal of the larynx for advanced cases.
Neck Dissection: If cancer has spread to lymph nodes.
2. Radiation Therapy
Used alone for early-stage or after surgery for advanced cancer.
KCC uses precision radiotherapy to reduce damage to healthy tissue.
3. Chemotherapy
Administered when cancer has spread or combined with radiation (chemoradiation).
Drugs like cisplatin are commonly used.
4. Targeted Therapy
Targets specific cancer pathways (e.g., EGFR inhibitors).
5. Immunotherapy
In advanced or recurrent cases, it helps the immune system fight cancer cells.
+91 8080485895
+91 7588783924
Gold Standard Treatment
For early stages, radiation therapy or partial laryngectomy offers excellent outcomes with voice preservation. In advanced stages, a combined approach of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy is considered the gold standard globally and practiced at Konkan Cancer Center with outstanding results.
Prognosis & Survival Rates
Early-stage laryngeal cancers (Stage I/II) have a 5-year survival rate of 75–90%.
For Stage III, this may drop to 50–60%.
Stage IV prognosis depends on extent and response to therapy, but multidisciplinary care at Konkan Cancer Center can significantly improve outcomes.
What to Do After Diagnosis?
After diagnosis, patients are guided through:
Personalized Treatment Planning
Psychological Counseling
Nutritional Support
Voice & Speech Rehabilitation (especially post-surgery)
Regular Follow-Ups to monitor recurrence
The journey may seem challenging, but Konkan Cancer Center walks with you at every step.
Most Asked FAQs on Laryngeal Cancer
Yes, especially if detected early. Many patients recover completely with timely treatment.
Not always. Many patients retain speech with partial surgery or radiation. Speech therapy is provided post-surgery.
Only in total laryngectomy cases. Most early-stage treatments don’t require it.
Depending on the stage, it may range from 6–12 weeks.
Voice change, dry mouth, swallowing issues, fatigue – all manageable with care.
Yes. Regular follow-ups are essential to detect recurrence early.
Absolutely. Quitting tobacco/alcohol, eating healthy, and follow-up compliance greatly improve long-term outcomes.
Why Choose Konkan Cancer Hospital (KCH)?
Expert Oncology Team in head and neck cancers
Latest Diagnostic & Treatment Technology
Multidisciplinary Tumor Board Reviews
Holistic Patient Support – Nutrition, Rehab & Counseling
Affordable, Accessible Care in Kudal, Konkan
Book Your Consultation Today
If you or a loved one is facing symptoms of laryngeal cancer, don’t delay. Early detection saves lives.
Contact Konkan Cancer Hospital to schedule a consultation with our expert oncologists.
