Can throat cancer be detected by a CT scan?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on November 06, 2024
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Most laryngeal cancers can be detected through CT scans because, during the scan, it is possible to see whether there are neoplasms in the area of the pharynx and larynx, especially around the laryngeal cavity, ventricle, and vocal cords. Generally, if there are any growths, they will be visible on a CT scan. However, some early-stage laryngeal cancers, where the mucosa has just started to show changes, might be missed by CT scans. In such cases, it is generally recommended to also perform a laryngoscopic examination. If possible, conducting an NBI (Narrow Band Imaging) laryngoscopy could reveal early mucosal changes. If early-stage laryngeal cancer is confirmed by pathology, surgical or radiation treatment can be very effective and generally has a low chance of recurrence.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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The Difference Between Throat Cancer and Esophageal Cancer

Throat cancer and esophageal cancer have essential differences, starting with the specific location of the disease. Throat cancer primarily occurs in the glottis and the supraglottic area, while esophageal cancer mainly occurs in the esophagus. Typically, the symptoms of throat cancer may be more characteristic, the most common being a foreign body sensation in the throat, throat pain, and hoarseness. Particularly, glottic throat cancer symptoms are more pronounced, which might include persistent and noticeable hoarseness. The primary symptoms of esophageal cancer are pain below the neck, which may be accompanied by difficulty swallowing or swallowing obstruction. For diagnosis, throat cancer is primarily assessed via laryngoscopy, while esophageal cancer is typically evaluated through gastroscopy. In terms of treatment, the approach generally focuses on surgery, potentially supplemented by radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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Can you eat after a total laryngectomy for throat cancer?

After the total laryngectomy for throat cancer, a period of recovery is necessary, during which time liquid food is administered via a nasogastric tube. Once recovery is complete, it is possible to eat orally. Because the entire larynx is removed during a total laryngectomy, the functions of voice and breathing are lost, and breathing is instead facilitated through a tracheostomy in the neck. Eating is completely unaffected. After recovery from the total laryngectomy, food is ingested orally, passes through the pharynx, and goes directly into the esophagus. Thus, it is possible to eat orally after a total laryngectomy for throat cancer.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What are the symptoms of throat cancer?

The symptoms of laryngeal cancer are quite varied, and there are some differences among different types of laryngeal cancer. For glottic laryngeal cancer, a common symptom is hoarseness because the cancer primarily develops on the vocal cords. This can lead to incomplete closure of the vocal cords or restricted movement during speech, causing hoarseness. Symptoms generally appear early in the course of the disease for this type. For supraglottic or subglottic laryngeal cancer, symptoms may include throat pain, a feeling of a foreign body, and difficulties in swallowing and breathing. However, hoarseness generally appears later in these cases. The primary treatment is surgery, with some patients requiring consideration for radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

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Written by Sun Ming Yue
Medical Oncology
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Will throat cancer recur after surgery?

After undergoing surgical treatment for throat cancer, it is important to pay attention to your diet, arrange your daily routine reasonably, maintain a cheerful mood, and have regular follow-up exams as directed by your doctor. Generally, there is a possibility of recurrence within five years. It is recommended to consume some traditional Chinese medicines that have good anti-tumor effects to prevent the recurrence of the disease. Additionally, change your physical constitution and enhance your body's immunity.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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The most common type of laryngeal cancer

At present, laryngeal cancer is classified based on anatomical location into three main types, with glottic cancer being the most common. Supraglottic and subglottic cancers are relatively less common. The primary symptom of glottic cancer is hoarseness, which can be noticeable in the early stages. Therefore, generally, the earlier the disease is diagnosed, the better the treatment outcome may be. Additionally, laryngeal cancer is also classified by pathological types. The main pathological type is squamous cell carcinoma. Overall, surgical treatment is the most important, but depending on the patient's stage and type of cancer, a combination of radiation and chemotherapy might be necessary.