Laryngeal

Cancer

Symptoms, Early Diagnosis & Therapy

Laryngeal cancer is a serious but treatable disease, especially when diagnosed early. Persistent hoarseness, throat pain, or difficulty swallowing should not be ignored. A timely ENT evaluation can make all the difference.

Nasal Congestion
Snoring
Headache
Nasal Discharge
Shortness of Breath
Nosebleed
Clinical Indications

When is an immediate evaluation required?

  • • Hoarseness persisting for more than 2–3 weeks
  • • Combination of symptoms (e.g., hoarseness & ear pain)
  • • Palpable neck mass (swollen lymph node)
  • • History of smoking/alcohol use in combination with new symptoms
Causes & Risk Factors
1
Smoking
The most significant risk factor for the development of the disease.
2
Alcohol Consumption
Acts synergistically with smoking, multiplying the risk.
3
HPV Virus
A common factor in supraglottic and oropharyngeal locations.
4
Occupational Exposure
Exposure to chemicals, asbestos, wood dust, or metals.
5
Demographic Factors
Age over 50 years and higher incidence in the male population.
Clinical Presentation

Symptoms requiring immediate evaluation

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Hoarseness persisting > 2–3 weeks
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Persistent throat pain
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Difficulty or pain when swallowing
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Sensation of a “lump” or foreign body
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Referred ear pain
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Unexplained weight loss
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Enlarged cervical lymph nodes
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Shortness of breath or wheezing (advanced stages)
Medical Care

Diagnosis & Treatment Plan

DIAGNOSIS & EXAMINATION

How is it diagnosed?

A multi-level process aimed at complete mapping of the condition:

  • 1. Detailed History: Evaluation of symptoms and risks.
  • 2. Laryngoscopy: Endoscopic examination.
  • 3. Biopsy: Histological confirmation of the findings.
  • 4. Imaging: CT or MRI of the neck area.
  • 5. Staging: Defining the extent for the treatment plan.
TREATMENT

Therapeutic Options

Treatment is personalized based on stage, location, and general health.

Early Stages
  • • Endoscopic Laser Surgery
  • • Radiotherapy (Voice Preservation)
Advanced Stages
  • • Partial or Total Laryngectomy
  • • Combined Radio-Chemotherapy
  • • Voice & Speech Rehabilitation
Why early diagnosis is critical
  • • High cure rates in the early stages of the disease
  • • Preservation of vital functions (voice and swallowing)
  • • Implementation of less aggressive therapeutic methods
  • • Significantly better postoperative quality of life
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hoarseness always a sign of cancer?
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No. However, hoarseness that persists for more than 2–3 weeks requires immediate evaluation by an ENT specialist, especially for individuals with a history of smoking.
Is a laryngoscopy painful?
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No. It is a brief and well-tolerated examination performed in the office, usually with the use of a local anesthetic spray.
Can the voice be saved?
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In the early stages, the answer is very often yes. Early diagnosis allows for the use of methods that preserve the larynx and vocal function.
Is laryngeal cancer curable?
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Yes. Especially when diagnosed at an early stage, the cure rates are exceptionally high.
Does it make sense to quit smoking now?
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Absolutely. Quitting reduces the risk of recurrence, improves the body’s response to treatment, and significantly upgrades the prognosis.

ENT Clinic – 16 Kapetan Chrona St., Neo Psychiko


Book an Appointment Now

+30 6931 045 380
contact@festas-orl.gr
16 Kapetan Chrona St.