Nasopharyngeal Cancer

Nasopharyngeal Cancer (NPC)

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is located behind the nose and above the back of the throat. NPC is rare in Europea, USA, but more frequently seen in Southeast Asia. NPC is difficult to detect early.

Symptoms

• Enlarged lymph node in the neck
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Bleeding from the nose
• Hearing loss due to blockage of the eustachian tube

Diagnosis

NPC is diagnosed by biopsy of the tumor. Imaging techniques (MR/CT), may also help to determine the extent of the tumor.

Treatment

Primary NPC responds well to radiation therapy. Depending on the extention of the tumor and its size, chemotherapy is incorporated into the treatment.