Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers arise within or adjacent to the larynx, or voice box. The larynx contains the vocal cords and also provides structures to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. There are three main parts of the larynx. They include the glottis, where the vocal cords are, the supraglottis, the tissue above the glottis and the sub glottis, the tissue below the glottis. The epiglottis is a flap of tissue, with a skeleton of cartilage, that prevents food from entering the trachea or airway. The hypopharynx surrounds the larynx and is part of the esophagus. Similar to oral and oropharyngeal cancers, most laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers arise from flat, squamous epithelial cells.
Causes of Hypopharyngeal Cancer
The exact reason why a cell within the larynx or hypopharynx will transform into a cancer cell is not known. However, there are a list of agents that appear to increase the possibility of developing cancer in this region of the body. They include smoking, drinking alcohol, vitamin deficiency, GERD, human papilloma virus and environmental carcinogens. Smoking tobacco is primary risk factor for cancer of the larynx and hypopharynx. The more patients smoke the more likely they are to develop these and other head and neck cancers. Individuals that consume excess amounts of alcohol increases the risk two to five times more likely than non-drinkers to develop cancers of the larynx and hypopharynx. The combined effect of using alcohol and smoking increases the risk of development cancer in this region even further. Heavy drinkers often neglect their diets and become deficient in vitamin B and vitamin A. This deficiency may further increase the risk of development laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer. GERD, the acronym for gastro esophageal reflux disease, occurs when acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus and causes a burning sensation. Stomach acid can damage the esophageal lining. The acid can extend up to the larynx and hypopharynx damages this tissue as well. Human Papillomaviruses within the throat may increase the risk of developing cancer in those regions. Exposure to certain environmental cancer causing agents, including wood dust, paint fumes, certain chemicals or asbestos may increase the risk of developing cancers of the larynx and hypopharynx.
Signs and Symptoms of Hypopharyngeal Cancer
Symptoms of cancers of the larynx and hypopharynx include prolonged hoarseness. Frequently, it will be present well in excess of two weeks. Chronic cough or chronic sore throat may also be symptoms of cancer of the larynx and hypopharynx. Enlarging masses in this region may produce difficulties with swallowing or painful swallowing. Pain may be felt in the ear. Last, but by no means least, cancer in this area can produce a lump in the neck and progressive unintended weight loss.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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