What is the most important early warning sign of laryngeal cancer?

Persistent hoarseness or any noticeable change in voice quality lasting more than three weeks, especially if not accompanied by a cold or influenza, is an important early warning sign that may indicate a problem in the larynx, including laryngeal cancer [4]. The larynx is the organ containing the vocal cords, and any abnormal growth within it can affect the vibration of these cords, leading to a change in voice quality or roughness [4]. While hoarseness can result from minor causes, its persistence warrants a specialized medical evaluation.

When does hoarseness require a doctor's consultation?

You should visit a doctor if your hoarseness persists for more than three weeks, especially if it is not the result of a cold or influenza. You should also seek medical advice if you experience a cough accompanied by blood, difficulty swallowing, a feeling of a lump in your neck, pain when speaking or swallowing, difficulty breathing, or a complete loss of voice for more than a few days [4].

Other symptoms of laryngeal cancer that require attention

In addition to voice changes, other warning signs may appear that require medical consultation, as symptoms may not be obvious in the early stages and evolve as the tumor grows [1]. These signs include:

• A sore throat that does not go away [1].
• Difficulty swallowing [1].
• A lump in the neck [1].
• Ear pain or ringing in the ears [1].

For more information on the details of symptoms and available diagnostic options, you can read our article on Laryngeal and Pharyngeal Cancer: Warning Signs, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options (Arabic).

How is laryngeal cancer diagnosed?

Given that the symptoms of laryngeal cancer are similar to other less serious health issues, only a specialized doctor can determine the exact cause through specific diagnostic procedures. The doctor begins by collecting a medical history and performing a thorough physical examination [4].

Diagnostic steps followed include:

1. Endoscopy: An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist uses a flexible, lighted scope to examine the vocal cords and larynx directly [4].
2. Medical Imaging: The doctor may order imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI to obtain detailed images of the tissues and determine the extent of the tumor's spread [1].
3. Biopsy: This is the definitive procedure for confirming the diagnosis, where a small sample of suspicious tissue is taken and examined in a laboratory under a microscope to detect cancerous cells [1].

It should be noted that the main risk factors for laryngeal cancer include tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption [1]. The presence of these symptoms always necessitates seeing an ear, nose, and throat specialist to ensure rapid diagnosis and the start of an appropriate treatment plan if the condition is confirmed.

Medical references

• What Is Hoarseness? — Causes, Diagnosis & Disorders | NIDCD
• Throat Cancer