ocal Cord Cancer: When the Voice Becomes Hoarse, Be Alert to This Early Sign

 

Case Study

“Mr. Jia, 56 years old, experienced breathing difficulties and hoarseness for two years, with symptoms worsening recently. Upon seeking medical help, a laryngoscopy revealed a cauliflower-like growth on his left vocal cord. A PET-CT scan showed abnormally high metabolic activity, leading to a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of the vocal cord. This case highlights the importance of timely medical evaluation for persistent hoarseness to rule out malignancy.”

 

What is Vocal Cord Cancer?
Vocal cord cancer is a malignant tumor affecting the vocal cords—key structures for sound production. It accounts for over 60% of laryngeal cancers. The majority (96%–98%) are squamous cell carcinomas. Early-stage tumors are often localized but highly invasive, potentially destroying laryngeal cartilage or spreading to neck lymph nodes.

Common Symptoms and Risks

• Hoarseness:The most typical early symptom. Seek evaluation if it persists beyond two weeks.
• Throat discomfort:Sensation of a foreign object, pain, coughing, or difficulty swallowing. Late stages may involve blood in sputum or coughing up blood.
• Breathing difficulties:Tumor obstruction of the airway can become life-threatening.
• Spread risk:Early tumors are localized, but advanced stages may invade surrounding tissues, damage laryngeal function, spread to neck lymph nodes, or metastasize to distant organs (e.g., lungs, liver), complicating treatment.

Causes of Vocal Cord Cancer

• Smoking and alcohol:Smokers face a 10-fold higher risk. Combined with alcohol, the risk escalates.
• HPV infection:Some cases are linked to human papillomavirus (HPV).
• Environmental factors:Long-term exposure to industrial dust, air pollution, or occupational carcinogens.
• Demographics:Most common in males aged 50–70.

Diagnostic Methods

• Laryngoscopy:Fiber-optic laryngoscopy detects mucosal abnormalities. Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) enhances early detection.
• CT/MRI:Assesses tumor extent and cartilage involvement.
• PET-CT:Detects distant metastasis and aids staging.
• Biopsy:Confirms cancer type via tissue analysis.

Treatment Options
Surgery

• Laser minimally invasive surgery:For early-stage tumors. Preserves function but may affect voice.
• Partial laryngectomy:Preserves partial laryngeal function for localized tumors.
• Total laryngectomy:Required for advanced/recurrent cases. Requires a tracheostomy.

Radiation Therapy

• Advantages:Preserves vocal function; suitable for elderly or comorbid patients.
• Drawbacks:May cause throat pain, swallowing difficulties.

Combined Therapies

• Radiation + Chemotherapy:Shrinks tumors pre-surgery in advanced cases.
• Targeted + Immunotherapy:Emerging treatments targeting genetic mutations or boosting immune response.

Early detection and treatment are critical. If you experience prolonged hoarseness, seek immediate medical attention. High-risk individuals should undergo regular screenings. For ENT concerns, contact  ENT Head and Neck Surgery Centre or call 3100 0555 for expert consultation.

Source:

HK ENT Specialist Ltd.

ENT Head and Neck Surgery Centre

For ENT Services, Audiology & Speech Therapy,

Sleep Disordered Breathing Management,

Hearing Aid Prescription & Medical Cosmetic Services

https://www.hkentspecialist.hk