Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (tumor)

About Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (tumor)

The nasopharynx is the passage which connects the nose with the throat. Cancer can be slow or fast growing. Rapidly growing cancers can destroy surrounding normal tissue, and spread to other areas of the body (metastasize). People from Asia and Northern Africa have a higher risk of nasopharyngeal cancer. Smoking, excessive alcohol use, inhaling certain dusts and toxins may increase the risk of this type of cancer. The cancer is difficult to detect and is often large when discovered.

Symptoms

Nasal discharge, nose bleeds, nasal pain, sinus pain, recurrent sinus infections, head and neck pain, swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan or MRI is often done when this cancer is suspected. Direct visualization with a fiber optic examination will be done and a biopsy taken to confirm the diagnosis.

Common tests: CT Scan, MRI.

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment will depend on the extent of disease but may include: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or surgery. For more information contact the American Cancer Society: (800)227-2345.

Medical specialties

Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) · Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (tumor).