Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Several types of tumors can form cancer of the nasopharynx, the upper part of your throat behind your nose.
The most common type of nasopharyngeal cancer, nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is caused when cells that line the surfaces of our body become damaged and grow out of control. This throat cancer can be difficult to detect early: the location of the nasopharynx makes it difficult to examine and symptoms of NPC often mimic other conditions.
Rare in the United States, nasopharyngeal cancer is fairly common in parts of Asia and North Africa. See your doctor if you notice unusual nasal congestion or have blood in your saliva, a lump in your neck or a bloody discharge from your nose.
Recently Answered
- Q Can nasopharyngeal cancer be prevented?
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Nasopharyngeal cancer cannot be completely prevented. However, cutting back on salt-cured foods and preserved meat products can reduce your risk of developing nasopharyngeal cancer. At present it is not possible to be vaccinated against the Epstein-Barr... Full Answer
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- Q What is nasopharyngeal cancer?
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Nasopharyngeal cancer is the cancer of the nasopharynx. The nasopharynx includes the upper throat and the nasal passages. A genetic mutation causes healthy cells to grow and multiply without limit. Full Answer
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- Q How do I prepare for an appointment to diagnose nasopharyngeal cancer?
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Most likely, if nasopharyngeal cancer is suspected, you will be sent to a doctor who specializes in the ears, nose, and throat, or a doctor who specializes in cancer. In order to prepare, it is best that you make a list of all medications that you are... Full Answer
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- Q What lifestyle changes should I make if I have nasopharyngeal cancer?
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If you have nasopharyngeal cancer, you should avoid things that cause it. For example, you should not eat salt-cured fish or preserved meats. Also, nutrition should be paid special attention to as this will help you remain as healthy as possible... Full Answer
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- Q How is a biopsy for nasopharyngeal cancer performed?
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A biopsy can be performed by using a nasoscope or an endoscope to collect a tissue sample. The tissue sample is then examined for evidence of cancer. A lymph node biopsy may also be performed to check if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. Full Answer
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- Q Will I need follow-up appointments for nasopharyngeal cancer?
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Yes, you will need follow-up appointments for nasopharyngeal cancer. This will be necessary in order to keep track of the stage of the cancer and to see how well the treatment is working. Also, even after nasopharyngeal cancer is cured, you may need to... Full Answer
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- Q What are the treatment options for nasopharyngeal cancer?
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Treatment options for nasopharyngeal cancer include radiation and chemotherapy. Radiation kills the cancer cells, but may also harm some healthy ones as well. Chemotherapy also kills cancer cells and is often used before, after or in conjunction with... Full Answer
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- Q Are there alternative treatments for nasopharyngeal cancer?
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While there are no proven alternative treatments for nasopharyngeal cancer, clinical trials may be an option. Biological therapy is a new treatment that is being tested. In this type of therapy, substances are used to enhance the immune system in order... Full Answer
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- Q What increases my risk for nasopharyngeal cancer?
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Risk factors for nasopharyngeal cancer include being male, of Asian or North African descent, and between 30 and 55 years of age. Consummation of salted fish and preserved meats also increase risk of nasopharyngeal cancer. Genetic factors and the... Full Answer
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- Q What is the surgery for nasopharyngeal cancer?
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Surgery to treat nasopharyngeal cancer is usually only done if radiation therapy was ineffective. The actual procedure involves cutting out the tumor from the nasopharynx. If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, then the lymph nodes may also need to... Full Answer
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