Pharynx and/or larynx cancers (throat)
Our experts in medical and radiation oncology, head and neck surgery, and speech and rehabilitation therapy offer specialized care for patients. We provide treatment options for pharynx and larynx cancers at all stages.
Risk assessment
We assess for risk factors for pharyngeal and laryngeal cancer (e.g. infected by human papillomavirus –HPV, history of smoking and/or alcohol use). Educational events for cancer treatment, prevention, and care are resources to help patients have reduce complications. Also, we ensure frequent follow-up procedures after surgical treatment (adjuvant therapy).
Diagnosis & treatment options
Tests that help diagnose and stage pharyngeal & laryngeal cancer include:
- physical examinations & assessments of medical history
- PET-CT scan
- MRI
- biopsies (e.g. endoscopy, laryngoscope, oral brush exam)
- HPV test (once cancer is found)
- barium swallow & bone scan (for laryngeal cancer)
Supportive care and information
- Patient and family support (including speech pathology)
- Patient education
- Information on HPV-positive Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Cancer (OPSCC)
- Total Laryngectomy - What you need to know when you go home
Clinical trials
About the pharynx/larynx
The pharynx
The pharynx consists of naso-, oro-, and hypopharynx, and is a hollow tube (~5” long) that starts behind the nose & ends where the trachea (windpipe) and esophagus (tube from throat to stomach) begin.
The larynx
The larynx consists of supraglottis, glottis, and subglottis and is part of the throat between base of tongue and trachea that contains vocal cords for voice production.
