Mutations in the cell DNA make cells grow uncontrollably and eventually form tumors. These tumors are dangerous, as they can spread to other parts of the body. Common causes of genetic mutations in the cells of the throat include cigarette smoking, exposure to toxic chemicals, and the human papillomavirus. Fortunately, there are treatments for throat cancer.
A targeted therapy for throat cancer is cetuximab. Cetuximab stops the action of a protein that is prevalent in certain types of throat cancer cells. Other targeted drugs are also available, and more are in clinical trials. These targeted drugs may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Immunotherapy is another treatment option. Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer by interfering with the growth of cancer cells.
During an initial appointment, your doctor will perform a physical exam to find any abnormalities or lumps in your throat. A biopsy may also be performed if your symptoms are not a result of a throat infection. A physician may also conduct imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine if the cancer has spread to other areas. A biopsy may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis of throat cancer and to get a definitive diagnosis. In addition to obtaining a biopsy, your doctor may perform a CT scan or MRI to determine whether there is any evidence of cancer in the throat.
The medical term for throat cancer is pharynx. The throat is a passage that keeps food and drink from traveling in one direction while air is repelled. The throat has three main parts: the larynx, the mouth, and the thyroid. Head and neck cancer is an umbrella term for many types of cancer. Mostly squamous cell cancers develop in the mouth, larynx, and thyroid.
During the first two years after a diagnosis of throat cancer, your doctor will advise you on undergoing reconstructive surgery if necessary. During these five-year follow-up visits, your doctor will check your overall condition and see whether the cancer has returned. The survival rate for throat cancer depends on the location, type, and stage. The survival rate is better when the disease is detected early. But even with these treatment options, it is still important to consult with your doctor if the symptoms persist and are not responding to medications.
There are many symptoms associated with throat cancer. Although the symptoms of the disease are not specific to throat cancer, doctors will investigate other causes before recommending treatment. The cancer may be in the upper or lower pharynx, but doctors aren’t sure. Early stages of the disease typically involve hoarseness of voice and difficulty eating or breathing. In addition, patients may also experience a change in their ability to speak and swallow.
Besides tobacco smoking, alcohol use, and chronic HPV infection increase the risk of throat cancer. In addition to smoking and drinking alcohol, people with throat cancer have a greater risk of developing a secondary form of the disease, including cancer in the esophagus, lungs, and mouth. During these years, the risk of developing throat cancer is higher among African-Americans than in whites. Additionally, throat cancer has the potential to spread to the nearby areas, such as the mouth, lymph nodes, and lips.
