Hypopharyngeal Cancer

Hypopharyngeal cancer describes a disease in which malignant cancer cells invade the tissue of the hypopharynx. The hypopharynx is an area in the back of the throat just above and behind the voice box. These tumors are more common in individuals who have a history of heavy tobacco and / or alcohol use. Hypopharyngeal cancers are often very difficult to diagnose and may not cause symptoms until they are quite large. Symptoms of hypopharyngeal cancer may include hoarse voice, sore throat, difficulty swallowing and ear pain.

These tumors can be examined in the office with a flexible fiberoptic endoscope that is placed through the nose and into the back of throat. A careful physical examination of the head and neck is also performed at that time. If a tumor is suspected, an operation may be scheduled to evaluate the size and location of the tumor and to obtain a biopsy. A CT scan or MRI is often performed to better assess the neck and lymph nodes.

Tumors of the hypopharynx are highly aggressive and are typically treated with surgery followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Highly advanced tumors can require treatment with surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Decisions about how to treat these tumors are made based on the size and location of the tumor and whether the tumor has spread into deeper layers of tissue. These tumors frequently spread to the lymph nodes of the neck and may also spread to other parts of the body (lungs, liver, etc.) If the tumor has spread to the lymph nodes, surgery to remove the affected lymph nodes may be necessary. We work closely with our cancer colleagues in radiation and medical oncology to ensure patients get the best treatment possible. By aggressively treating these aggressive tumors with our multidisciplinary team, patients are given their best chance of cure.