Glottic Cancer - Symptoms, Reasons And Treatment

Glottic cancer affects the vocal cords located in the larynx, which is a part of the throat responsible for producing sound when we speak. This type of cancer can impact the ability to speak and breathe properly. The exact cause of glottic cancer is not always clear, but it is often linked to factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to certain chemicals or pollutants.

Chronic irritation and inflammation of the vocal cords may also play a role in the development of this cancer. By understanding the potential risk factors and seeking medical attention if experiencing any concerning symptoms, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their vocal health.

What Are the Symptoms of Glottic Cancer

Glottic cancer can present with symptoms such as persistent hoarseness or a change in voice quality, throat pain or discomfort, difficulty swallowing, a lump or mass in the neck, persistent cough, and breathing difficulties. Some patients may also experience ear pain or unexplained weight loss. If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they persist for more than a few weeks, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and appropriate management. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis and outcomes of glottic cancer.

Hoarseness or changes in voice quality can be an early symptom of glottic cancer.
Persistent sore throat or feeling of a lump in the throat may indicate glottic cancer.
Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can be a symptom of advanced glottic cancer.
Coughing up blood or experiencing unexplained weight loss could be signs of glottic cancer.
Chronic cough or a persistent cough that doesn't go away with usual treatments may signal glottic cancer.

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Causes of Glottic Cancer

The primary risk factors include smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, with the combination of these habits significantly increasing the likelihood of developing the disease. Other factors such as exposure to certain chemicals or pollutants, chronic irritation from conditions like acid reflux, and genetic predisposition may also play a role in the development of glottic cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial in managing the condition and improving outcomes for affected individuals.

Smoking tobacco is a significant risk factor for developing glottic cancer due to the harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke.
Heavy alcohol consumption can increase the likelihood of developing glottic cancer, especially when combined with smoking.
Prolonged exposure to irritants like asbestos, coal dust, or nickel compounds in certain occupational settings may contribute to glottic cancer.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV type 16, has been linked to an increased risk of developing glottic cancer.
Genetic predisposition or a family history of head and neck cancers can play a role in the development of glottic cancer.

Types Of Glottic Cancer

Glottic cancer, a type of laryngeal cancer, can be categorized into different types based on the specific location and characteristics of the tumor. These types include supraglottic, glottic, and subglottic cancers. Glottic cancer specifically refers to tumors that develop on the vocal cords within the larynx. Supraglottic cancer affects the area above the vocal cords, while subglottic cancer occurs below the vocal cords. Each type may present with varying symptoms and require different treatment approaches, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and personalized care for individuals affected by glottic cancer.

Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of glottic cancer, originating in the squamous cells lining the vocal cords.
Adenocarcinoma is a less common subtype of glottic cancer, developing in the glandular cells of the vocal cords.
Sarcomatoid carcinoma is a rare and aggressive form of glottic cancer that can spread quickly.
Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma is a subtype of squamous cell carcinoma with distinct characteristics and behavior.
Undifferentiated carcinoma is a type of glottic cancer where the cells do not resemble normal tissue and are difficult to classify.
Melanoma can occasionally arise in the glottis, originating from melanocytes in the vocal cords.

Risk Factors

Glottic cancer risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and exposure to irritants like asbestos or coal dust. Men are more susceptible than women, and individuals aged over 50 are at higher risk. Chronic acid reflux, HPV infection, and a family history of head and neck cancers are also associated with increased risk. Poor oral hygiene and a diet low in fruits and vegetables may contribute as well. Regular screening and lifestyle modifications can help reduce the risk of developing glottic cancer.

Smoking tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars, and pipes, significantly increases the risk of developing glottic cancer.
Excessive alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for glottic cancer, especially when combined with smoking.
Chronic exposure to irritants like asbestos, coal dust, or certain chemicals may elevate the likelihood of developing glottic cancer.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly certain high-risk strains, has been linked to an increased risk of glottic cancer.
Gender plays a role, as men are more likely to develop glottic cancer compared to women.

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Diagnosis of Glottic Cancer

It usually begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination by an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Following this, imaging tests such as a laryngoscopy or CT scan may be performed to visualize the vocal cords and surrounding structures. A biopsy is then often conducted to obtain a tissue sample for laboratory analysis to definitively diagnose cancer. Additionally, further tests like a PET scan or MRI may be recommended to determine the extent of the cancer and aid in treatment planning.

Glottic cancer diagnosis involves physical examination of the throat.
Imaging tests like CT scans help visualize the extent of the tumor.
A biopsy is performed to confirm the presence of cancerous cells in the glottis.
Laryngoscopy allows direct visualization of the vocal cords and surrounding tissues.
MRI scans provide detailed images to assess the tumor's size and location.

Treatment for Glottic Cancer

Treatment options for glottic cancer typically involve a multidisciplinary approach tailored to the stage and extent of the disease. Common interventions include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, either alone or in combination. Surgical procedures like cordectomy or laryngectomy may be recommended depending on the tumor size and location. Radiation therapy, often used as a primary treatment or in conjunction with surgery, targets the cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Chemotherapy may be utilized to shrink tumors before surgery or as an adjuvant therapy to prevent recurrence. Additionally, newer modalities such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy are being researched for their potential in managing glottic cancer. Treatment decisions are made based on factors such as the patient's overall health, tumor

When it comes to treating glottic cancer, the approach depends on various factors such as the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and personal preferences. Surgery is a common treatment option for glottic cancer, where the cancerous tissue is removed from the vocal cords or larynx.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells and is often employed as a primary treatment or in combination with surgery. Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells and may be recommended for advanced or recurrent cases of glottic cancer. Targeted therapy targets specific molecules involved in cancer growth and progression, offering a more precise treatment approach. Immunotherapy boosts the

Find Our Specialists

Book Doctor Appointment