Hypopharyngeal cancer natural history, complications and prognosis

Hypopharyngeal cancer Microchapters
Home
Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Hypopharyngeal Cancer from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
Diagnostic Study of Choice
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Electrocardiogram
Chest X Ray
CT
MRI
Echocardiogram or Ultrasound
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies
Case Studies
Case #1
Hypopharyngeal cancer natural history, complications and prognosis On the Web
Most recent articles
Most cited articles
Review articles
CME Programs
Powerpoint slides
Images
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Hypopharyngeal cancer natural history, complications and prognosis All Images X-rays Echo & Ultrasound CT Images MRI
Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov
US National Guidelines Clearinghouse
NICE Guidance
FDA on Hypopharyngeal cancer natural history, complications and prognosis
CDC on Hypopharyngeal cancer natural history, complications and prognosis
Hypopharyngeal cancer natural history, complications and prognosis in the news
Blogs on Hypopharyngeal cancer natural history, complications and prognosis
Directions to Hospitals Treating Hypopharyngeal cancer
Risk calculators and risk factors for Hypopharyngeal cancer natural history, complications and prognosis

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Faizan Sheraz, M.D. [2]

Overview

If left untreated, hypopharyngeal cancer produces few symptoms early in the course. Once the tumor has expanded from its site of origin, it may obstruct the aerodigestive tract. Common complications of hypopharyngeal cancer include airway obstruction and disfigurement of the neck or face. The prognosis varies with the type of hypopharyngeal cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma of hypopharynx has the most unfavorable prognosis.

Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

Natural History

• If left untreated, hypopharyngeal cancer produces few symptoms early in the course.
• Once the tumor has expanded from its site of origin, it may obstruct the aerodigestive passages.

Complications

Common complications of hypopharyngeal cancer include:

• Airway obstruction
• Disfigurement of the neck or face
• Hoarseness and speaking difficulties
• Metastasis

Prognosis

The prognosis varies with the type of hypopharyngeal cancer. The prognosis also depends on the age, tumor location, and the stage. Squamous cell carcinoma of hypopharynx has the most unfavorable prognosis. Based on staging, the 5-year survival rate of hypopharyngeal cancer is as follows:

• Stage I-II has a 47% 5-year survival rate
• Stage III-IVb has a 30% 5-year survival rate
• Stage IVc has a 16% 5-year survival rate