Cancer of the larynx

Cancer of the larynx also may be called laryngeal cancer. Cancer can develop in any part of the larynx. Most cancers of the larynx begin in the glottis. The inner walls of the larynx are lined with cells called squamous cells. Almost all laryngeal cancers begin in these cells. These cancers are called squamous cell carcinomas.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cancer of the larynx depend mainly on the size of the tumor and where it is in the larynx. Symptoms may include the following:

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• Hoarseness or other voice changes
• A lump in the neck
• A sore throat or feeling that something is stuck in your throat
• A cough that does not go away
• Problems breathing
• Bad breath
• An earache
• Weight loss

These symptoms may be caused by cancer or by other, less serious problems. Only a doctor can tell for sure.

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