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Pathology of Laryngeal Cancer

The cells of the larynx are where laryngeal cancer begins (voice box). (Canadian Cancer

Society, 2021). Cancer cells grow in the larynx tissue, or voice box, which leads to laryngeal

cancer. Laryngeal cancer is among the most common cancers of the head and neck. X-ray

radiotherapy has been generally used to treat laryngeal cancer; however, due to radio resistance

development, the increase in patient life expectancy and protection of laryngeal function has

been reduced (Yang et al., 2018). Cells in the larynx can shift and stop growing or functioning

normally. Chronic laryngitis and vocal cord nodules are non-cancerous (benign) disorders that

can result from these changes. They may also cause benign tumours, including vocal cord polyps

and laryngeal papillomatosis, which aren't cancerous (Canadian Cancer Society, 2021). A visit to

the family doctor is usually the first step in diagnosing laryngeal cancer. To rule out laryngeal

cancer, tests like endoscopy, laryngostroboscopy, laryngoscopy, biopsy, MRI, CT scan, blood

chemistry tests, speech, swallowing, and other tests were conducted (Canadian Cancer Society,

2021). Depending on where the tumour begins in the larynx, the signs and symptoms of

laryngeal cancer can differ. Other illnesses can also cause symptoms of laryngeal cancer. Some

of the signs and symptoms of laryngeal cancer include prolonged sore throat, swallowing

problems or discomfort, palpable lump in the neck, earache, and breath with a foul odour

(Canadian Cancer Society, 2021). Alcohol use has been linked to a higher risk of laryngeal

cancer. However, there is little detail on the risks associated with light alcohol use (Islami et al.,

2010). Gastroesophageal reflux, family history of cancer, smoking, diet, and even human

papillomavirus (HPV) are some of the risk factors of laryngeal cancer, too (Canadian Cancer

Society, 2021). To aid laryngeal cancer, patients often undergo surgeries, chemotherapy,

targeted therapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy (Canadian Cancer Society, 2021).

Lab Values
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While no precise blood test exists to diagnose laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer,

various laboratory tests, such as blood and urine tests, can be performed to assist in analyzing

and understanding more about the disease (Cancer.Net, 2019). If there is a lump in their neck, a

swollen lymph gland, also known as a lymph node, may be the source of a lump in the neck. To

see whether there are cancer cells in the lymph node, the healthcare provider will use a fine

needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy (Stanford Children's Health, n.d.).

The doctor will prescribe tests to check the blood levels to ensure that the liver and

kidneys are functioning correctly. Certain chemicals, such as calcium, sodium, potassium, and

magnesium, may also be measured by the healthcare provider (Stanford Children's Health, n.d.).