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Hypopharyngeal cancer

Hypopharyngeal cancer is a rare type of cancer in the lining (squamous cell carcinoma) that occurs in the lower part of the throat. Hypopharyngeal cancer usually occurs in men over 50 years old.

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Read more about the symptoms and the most common tests and treatments for hypopharyngeal cancer on this page.

Causes and symptoms hypopharyngeal cancer

Hypopharyngeal cancer can cause the following symptoms:

  • pain, sometimes radiating towards the ears
  • difficulty swallowing
  • lump in the throat
  • hoarseness
  • swollen lymph nodes in the neck

The main risk factors for the development of hypopharyngeal cancer are smoking and heavy alcohol use. These risks further increase if oral, throat, or lung cancer occurs in the family.

Diagnosis

The following tests may be done to confirm or rule out hypopharyngeal cancer:

Treatment options hypopharyngeal cancer

Our goal is to preserve organ functions through radiation therapy and chemoradiation. Laser surgery will only be an option if the cancer is detected at an early stage.

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Head and Neck Cancer Center

Find our more about the NKI Head and Neck Cancer Center, our specialists, patient satisfaction rates, and innovations on this page.
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