Cancer of the Larynx Definition Laryngeal cancer may also be called cancer of the larynx or laryngeal carcinoma.

Most laryngeal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, reflecting their origin from the squamous cells which form the majority of the laryngeal epithelium. Cancer can develop in any part of the larynx, but the cure rate is affected by the location of the tumour. For the purposes of tumour staging, the larynx is divided into three anatomical regions: the glottis (true vocal cords, anterior and posterior commissures); the supraglottis (epiglottis,arytenoids and aryepiglottic folds, and false cords); and the subglottis. Most laryngeal cancers originate in the glottis. Supraglottic cancers are less common, and subglottic tumours are least frequent. Laryngeal cancer. (2012, March 02). Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laryngeal_cancer _____________________________________________________________________________ What is laryngeal cancer? A person with laryngeal cancer has a growth of abnormal cells in the larynx that multiply out of control. These cells can form tumors and spread to other parts of the body. Laryngeal cancer is more common in men than in women. The cause of laryngeal cancer is unknown, but genetics may play a role in determining risk. Schueler, S. (2011, September 11). Laryngeal cancer. Retrieved from http://www.freemd.com/laryngeal-cancer/overview.htm ______________________________________________________________________________ Symptoms The symptoms of laryngeal cancer depend mainly on the size and location of the tumor. Common symptoms of laryngeal cancer include:

A hoarse voice or other voice changes for more than 3 weeks A sore throat or trouble swallowing for more than 6 weeks A lump in the neck

Other symptoms may include:

Trouble breathing A cough that doesn't go away An earache that doesn't go away

These symptoms may be caused by laryngeal cancer or by other health problems. People with these symptoms should tell their doctor so that any problem can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Larynx cancer. (2011, January 21). Retrieved from http://www.medicinenet.com/larynx_cancer/page3.htm Symptoms Abnormal (high-pitched) breathing sounds Cough Coughing up blood Difficulty swallowing Hoarseness that does not get better in 1 - 2 weeks Neck pain Sore throat that does not get better in 1 - 2 weeks, even with antibiotics Swelling or lumps in the neck Unintentional weight loss

Cancer - throat or larynx. (2011, February 28). Retrieved from http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/cancer-throat-or-larynx/overview.html