Cancers of the Larynx (voice box) and pharynx (throat) make up a large proportion of the head and neck cancer patients seen and treated at RDH. They can be divided into different types depending on where the cancer is coming from; The larynx, nasopharynx (back of nose), oropharynx (tonsils and base of tongue) and hypopharynx (Junction between throat and food pipe).

Cancers of the larynx are the most common of all head and neck cancers whilst cancers of the hypopharynx are very rare.

These cancers can all behave very differently but in general, Men are much more commonly affected than women and are typically between 55 and 70 years of age.

Risk factors for developing these cancers include tobacco smoking, alcohol ingestion, diet lacking in fresh fruit and vegetables, gastro oesophageal reflux disease and infection with certain viruses. It is interesting to note that people on a Mediterranean diet have less than half the risk of developing the cancers and that a high intake of red meat, processed meat and fried foods increases the risk.

These cancers can cause a variety of symptoms depending on where they arise and how advanced they are. In general the most usual symptoms are voice changes (usually hoarseness), persistent sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. When the cancer is advanced there can be difficult and noisy breathing, dramatic weight loss and poor appetite. Sometimes and uncommonly a patient may have no symptoms at all apart from finding a lump in their neck.

All patients referred to RDH and suspected to have a cancer undergo a general anaesthetic to examine directly the voice box, throat and food pipe. At this time biopsies of the cancer are taken to confirm the diagnosis. Subsequently the patient will have a special scan to see how big the cancer is, and if it has spread to the lymph glands in the neck or to the lungs.

Like all other head and neck cancers the treatment of larynx and pharynx cancers is complex and is individualised to each patient. In general treatment options include radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery, each individually or in combination. Each case is confidentially discussed at a special cancer meeting held weekly at the RDH involving specialists in every aspect of head and neck cancer treatment. (see section on meet the team)

Being diagnosed with Head and Neck cancer, can be devastating and life changing, the treatments can often be difficult and the recovery long. Our aim at RDH is to treat each of our patients and their families with respect and dignity. To discuss with them all the treat options that are available so that they can make informed decisions about their treatment. To deliver the highest quality of care from initial diagnosis through to treatment and subsequent outpatient follow up.

Hemi Patel

Consultant Otolaryngologist and Head and Neck Surgeon

Royal Darwin Hospital