Can throat cancer be cured?

Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
Updated on January 20, 2025
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Laryngeal cancer is a type of malignant tumor in otolaryngology, divided into primary and secondary types. Secondary tumors refer to malignant tumors that have metastasized from other parts of the body, which are relatively rare; while primary tumors originate in the laryngeal area, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most common. For early-stage laryngeal cancer patients, it is generally necessary to detect and treat the disease early. Minimally invasive surgery using methods such as carbon dioxide laser can be used to remove the tumor, and patients can be cured. However, for hypopharyngeal cancer and late-stage tumors, due to the biological characteristics of the patients, early metastasis is common, making complete recovery difficult. Recurrence is also possible. Therefore, timely treatment is necessary, and postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy are needed to further augment treatment, aiming to extend the patient's survival period as much as possible.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can throat cancer be cured?

Laryngeal cancer is a malignant tumor located in the larynx, which can be classified into supraglottic cancer, subglottic cancer, glottic cancer, and transglottic cancer. Any malignant tumor is not incurable; it mainly depends on how early it is detected. If laryngeal cancer is discovered early and treated correctly, promptly, and appropriately, the primary treatments include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, among others. Under these conditions, the survival rate, cure rate, and life expectancy are quite high. However, if the laryngeal cancer has reached an advanced stage and has metastasized to other parts of the body or distant organs, the prognosis is poor, and the survival rate is relatively low.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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Recurrence rate after total laryngectomy for throat cancer

Laryngeal cancer is a common disease in otolaryngology and a relatively prevalent malignant tumor. Patients who undergo total laryngectomy often have advanced laryngeal tumors, which block the esophagus or pharynx and have tumor tissues too large for partial removal. The likelihood of recurrence after tumor resection varies from patient to patient, depending on the radiotherapy and chemotherapy administered post-operatively, as well as individual physical constitutions, which can alter recurrence rates. Generally, we recommend that patients undergo a laryngoscopic check-up every three to six months and a CT scan of the larynx post-surgery, to enable timely detection and treatment, aiming for early control and intervention in case of potential 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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Early symptoms of throat cancer

The early symptoms of laryngeal cancer vary depending on the type, as laryngeal cancer is categorized into three types. The most common type, accounting for over 80%, is glottic cancer. The early symptom for this type is primarily hoarseness, making it the type of laryngeal cancer where symptoms appear earliest. The other two types are supraglottic and subglottic cancer. These types are less likely to show early symptoms, or the symptoms may not be typical and easily noticeable or taken seriously. The main symptom is a foreign body sensation in the throat, which is often mistaken for pharyngitis or laryngitis and not given due attention. Therefore, when experiencing persistent hoarseness or a noticeable foreign body sensation in the throat, and if throat discomfort persists, it is advised to visit the Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) department of a hospital promptly for an examination with an electronic laryngoscope. This can help in the early detection, exclusion, and diagnosis of the condition.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can throat cancer be cured after recurrence?

Laryngeal cancer is a relatively common type of head and neck malignancy. If laryngeal cancer recurs, it becomes more difficult to treat, and only a small portion of patients can achieve clinical cure, with the majority finding it difficult to be cured. In terms of treatment options, the first step is to assess the severity of the condition, and it is recommended to conduct a laryngoscopy and a CT scan of the larynx. Some patients might consider undergoing a total laryngectomy, while others may opt for radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, the specific treatment option should be chosen based on the severity of the patient’s condition, their overall health, and the patient’s own wishes. After treatment, regular follow-ups are necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.