Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (Tumor)
Description
The nasopharynx is the passage which connects the nose with the throat. Cancer is an overgrowth of cells and can be benign, meaning slow growing, or malignant. Malignant cancers are the most serious. They grow rapidly, can destroy surrounding normal tissue, and spread to other areas of the body (metastasize). Most nasopharyngeal cancers are malignant. Cancer in this area is more common in Asia and Northern Africa. Smoking, excessive alcohol use, inhaling certain dusts and toxins may increase the risk of this type of cancer. The cancer is difficult to detect and is often large when discovered.
Symptoms
Nasal discharge, nose bleeds, nasal pain, sinus pain, recurrent sinus infections, head and neck pain, swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Direct visualization with a fiber optic examination will be done and a biopsy taken to determine the type of cancer. A CT or MRI scan may be done to define the extent of the disease.
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
Treatment will depend on the extent of disease but may include: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or surgery. For more information contact the American Cancer Society: (800)227-2345.
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