Otolaryngology: Laryngeal Cancer

Basics

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the Most Common Malignancy (85-95%)
• Strongest Risk Factors: Tobacco & Alcohol

Sites

• Supraglottis
• Glottis – Most Common
• Subglottis – Rare

Presentation

• Hoarse Voice
• Dysphagia
• Cough
• Hemoptysis
• Referred Otalgia – Earache

Diagnosis

• Initial Evaluation: Imaging (CT/MRI)
• Definitive Diagnosis: Laryngoscopic Biopsy

General Treatment

• Early-Stage (Stage I-II): Single-Modality Therapy
  • Options:
    • Radiation Therapy
    • Surgical Resection
• Advanced-Stage (Stage III-IV): Combined-Modality Therapy
  • Options:
    • Total Laryngectomy & Adjuvant Radiation Therapy
    • Primary Chemoradiation Therapy