Laryngeal Cancer in Panama
Laryngeal cancer is a disease that affects a significant number of people worldwide; its understanding and prevention are essential to reduce its impact.
Early diagnosis, better results
When detected in early stages, laryngeal cancer can be treated more effectively; increasing the chances of cure and preserving the patient's quality of life. Early detection allows our physicians to approach the disease with a less invasive approach.
It is advisable to be attentive to the initial symptoms of laryngeal cancer (voice changes, difficulty swallowing and persistent throat pain).
Despite the aggressiveness of treatments, survival rates are encouraging for stage I, II and III laryngeal cancer.
Diagnosis and Staging
Staging of laryngeal cancer helps determine the extent and severity of the neoplasm. In this case, laryngeal cancer is classified into stages ranging from 0 to IV.
General Welfare
We understand the importance of the integral wellbeing of our patients, therefore, we have the support of an oncologist psychologist to provide a safe and confidential space where patients can express their concerns, fears and emotions.
The Specialist
Our specialists stand out for their excellence in the field of oncology, providing quality medical care that is personalized to the needs of each patient.
What is laryngeal cancer?
Laryngeal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the larynx or "voice box". This is a part of the respiratory tract where speech sounds are produced. This type of cancer can affect the vocal cords, the epiglottis or the cartilage around it.
Types of laryngeal cancer
There are three main types of laryngeal cancer:
Squamous cell carcinoma:
It is the most common and originates in the cells lining the larynx.
Warty carcinoma:
It is a type of squamous cell carcinoma that presents with wart-like growths or warts.
Small cell carcinoma:
It is one of the rarest and most aggressive types of laryngeal cancer.
Symptoms of laryngeal cancer
Symptoms of laryngeal cancer may include:
Hoarseness or voice changes.
Difficulty in swallowing.
Persistent sore throat.
Constant cough.
Difficulty breathing.
Presence of a lump in the neck or throat.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for laryngeal cancer are:
Smoking.
Excessive alcohol consumption.
Exposure to certain chemicals and industrial dusts.
Advanced age.
Male sex.
A diet poor in fruits and vegetables.
Contact us at
Schedule an appointment
Request a consultation
Screening tests
In addition to physical examination and review of medical history, screening tests for laryngeal cancer include the following:
Laryngoscopy:
In which a thin, flexible tube with a light is used to visualize the larynx.
Biopsy:
This test involves the removal of a small tissue sample for microscopic analysis.
Treatments for laryngeal cancer
Treatments for laryngeal cancer can vary depending on the stage of the disease and the individual characteristics of each patient. Some of the common treatment options are:
Surgery
Laryngectomy is a common option for treating laryngeal cancer. This may involve partial or complete removal of the larynx, depending on the location and extent of the tumor. In some cases, it may also be necessary to remove nearby lymph nodes.
Radiotherapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells and may be given as the primary treatment or after surgery to eliminate any residual cancer cells.
Radiation therapy can be external, where radiation is administered from an external machine, or internal, by placing a radioactive source inside the larynx.
Chemotherapy
In chemotherapy, drugs are administered to destroy cancer cells, usually intravenously. It can be used alone or in combination with radiotherapy, being especially useful in cases of advanced laryngeal cancer or when there are metastases to other parts of the body.
Targeted therapy
Targeted therapy is a newer treatment approach that targets specific changes in cancer cells. These drugs block signals that allow cancer cells to grow and divide.
Targeted therapy can be used in combination with other treatments or as a maintenance treatment after surgery or radiotherapy.
How to prevent laryngeal cancer?
Prevention of laryngeal cancer may involve abstaining from smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables; as well as protection against exposure to harmful industrial chemicals and dusts.
