NASOPHARYNGEAL

CANCER
DISEASE OVERVIEW

Nasopharyngeal cancer is a rare type of head

and neck cancer. It starts in the upper part of
your throat, behind the nose. This area is
called the nasopharynx. The nasopharynx is
precariously placed at the base of your skull,
above the roof of your mouth. Your nostrils
open into the nasopharynx.
DISEASE OVERVIEW

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a rare tumor

arising from the epithelium of the
nasopharynx. It accounts for
approximately 1% of all childhood
malignancies. Whereas almost all adult
nasopharyngeal cancers are carcinomas,
only 35-50% of nasopharyngeal
malignancies are carcinomas in children. 
CAUSES

Cancer begins when one or more genetic

mutations cause normal cells to grow out
of control, invade surrounding structures
and eventually spread (metastasize) to
other parts of the body. In nasopharyngeal
carcinomas, this process begins in the
squamous cells that line the surface of the
nasopharynx.
CAUSES

Exactly what causes the gene mutations

that lead to nasopharyngeal carcinoma isn't
known, though factors, such as the
Epstein-Barr virus, that increase the risk of
this cancer have been identified. However,
it isn't clear why some people with all the
risk factors never develop cancer, while
others who have no apparent risk factors
do.
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
RISK FACTORS

Gender

Ethnicity and
where you live
A certain kind of
diet

Genetic factors

Family history
PREVENTION

No sure way exists to prevent

nasopharyngeal carcinoma. However,
if you′re concerned about your risk of
nasopharyngeal carcinoma, you may
consider avoiding habits that have
been associated with the disease. For
instance, you may:
PREVENTION

Cut back on the amount of salt-cured foods you eat or

avoid these foods altogether

Stop smoking

Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all

The earlier cancer is detected the better are the

chances of cure and complete recovery. It is important
to realize that many cancers today are curable.
 SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
A lump in your neck caused by a swollen lymph
node
Blood in your saliva
Bloody discharge from your nose
Nasal congestion
Hearing loss
Frequent ear infections
Headaches