I had 6 weeks of radio therapy for a tumour in my larnyx, my voice returned to normal after the treatment. lateley my horseness has returned, would this indicate that the tumour is still ther. also what are the symptoms for the late stages of cancer of the larynx. I look forward to hearing from you.
Reply: ----------------------
Any hoarseness that is new or different that occurs in an individual with a past history of radiation treatment for laryngeal cancer requires a consultation with an ear, nose, throat specialist for a detailed endoscopic examination of the larynx which can usually be done during an office visit.
Hoarseness could be related to post-radiation therapy changes in the vocal cords or it could be due to recurrence or persistent cancer. If recurrent or persistent cancer is diagnosed early enough, there is still a fairly high cure rate provided there is no spread to regional lymph nodes but this would entail surgery. Curative doses of radiation therapy given in the treatment of laryngeal cancer can generally be given only once in a lifetime.
Advanced cancers of the larynx may spread beyond the confines of the larynx to involve regional lymph nodes or the tongue. Hoarseness may be the initial symptom but swallowing difficulties and sore throat, occasionally with referred ear pain, may also occur. Eventually tumor growth can obstruct the larynx causing breathing difficulties. Forunately hoarseness occurs early in larynx cancer and therefore proper and timely attention usually allows for early detection of larynx cancers before they become advanced.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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