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Laryngeal Tumor
A tumor (cancer) of the larynx can result in a hoarse voice, or, in more serious cases, the total blockage of the airway. The slow onset of a hoarse voice occurring over a period of weeks to months, should generate concern in all patients regardless of age. Laryngeal cancer is most commonly seen in those over 40 years of age who smoke or "chew" tobacco.
Evaluation and Treatment of Laryngeal Tumor
Evaluation will involve a procedure to directly, or indirectly, visually inspect the vocal cords. This is known as laryngoscopy. The procedure is usually accomplished with the indirect (mirror) examination, or directly, with a fiberoptic instrument that is inserted into the mouth (or nose) into the throat. The fiberoptic scope allows the physician to directly observe the vocal cords for disease. Questionable lesions mandate biopsy (taking a tissue specimen). The biopsy will be analyzed under a microscope by the Pathologist.
Treatment for documented laryngeal cancer is based upon the extent the disease has progressed. Surgical removal of part, or all of the larynx, is often necessary (laryngectomy). Radiation therapy has also been used to control disease that has spread to surrounding tissue.
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