Nasopharyngeal Cancer

What is the nasopharynx?

The nasopharynx is the upper part of the throat behind the nose and near the base of the skull. It is a box-shaped area and acts as a passageway for air traveling from the nose into the throat.

What causes nasopharyngeal cancer?

The most common type of cancer in the nasopharynx is termed nasopharyngeal carcinoma or “NPC,” of which there are several subtypes. A less common cancer in the nasopharynx is lymphoma because there is immune (lymphoid) tissue present in this area.

NPC is most common in certain regions of the world including Southeastern China, Singapore, Vietnam, and the Middle East. This is in part due to certain dietary habits in these areas including the consumption of high amounts of salt-cured fish and meat starting at a young age.

Infection with Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and human papilloma virus (HPV) are associated with NPC but the link is being actively studied. Newly diagnosed nasopharyngeal cancers are always tested to determine if they are related to EBV and/or HPV.

How common is nasopharyngeal cancer?

Nasopharyngeal cancer is rare, and in the United States there is less than one case diagnosed for every 100,000 people each year. Overall, cases of NPC have been decreasing over time due to environmental and lifestyle changes.

What are the signs and symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancer?

Most people with nasopharyngeal cancer notice a lump in their neck as the first sign of this disease, which is caused by the cancer spreading to the lymph nodes in the neck. Other symptoms that can be due to NPC include hearing loss, recurrent ear infections on one side, nasal blockage, nosebleeds, headaches, facial pain or numbness. If you develop any of these symptoms, contact our team at Endeavor Health Advanced Neurosciences Center. to book an appointment with our head and neck cancer specialists.

How is nasopharyngeal cancer treated?

Generally, the treatment of nasopharyngeal cancer includes either radiation alone or a combination of chemotherapy and radiation. In cases of recurrent cancer, where the cancer returns after being treated, surgery can be performed. Given the complexity of this surgery, this should only be performed by surgeons with extensive training and experience.