Laryngeal (larynx) cancer is diagnosed through a structured clinical process that begins with suspicion based on symptoms and progresses through visual examination, imaging, and biopsy confirmation.
Recognising early symptoms and risk factors
Getting a timely and correct diagnosis of Laryngeal (larynx) cancer is very important. It helps doctors begin treatment early and improves the chances of a good outcome. However, many early signs look like common problems such as laryngitis or acid reflux. Because of this, doctors must stay alert. This is especially true for people who smoke or drink a lot.
The process usually starts with a visit to a general doctor or an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist. The doctor will ask many questions. These include how long the symptoms have lasted and whether they’ve worsened. Common signs include a hoarse voice, a sore throat, trouble swallowing, or a lump in the neck.
The doctor will also ask about lifestyle habits. These might include smoking, alcohol use, or certain job exposures. They’ll also check for any personal or family history of cancer.
Laryngoscopy and biopsy
Next, the doctor will do a physical check-up. They will feel the neck to check for swollen glands or lumps. These may show that the cancer has spread nearby. But since the voice box is deep inside the throat, doctors need special tools to look at it closely.
The main test for diagnosis of Laryngeal (larynx) cancer is a laryngoscopy. This lets doctors see the larynx directly. There are two types:
- Indirect laryngoscopy: The doctor uses a small mirror or a thin flexible tube with a light. This goes through the nose and helps them see the vocal cords. It’s a quick test done in the clinic.
- Direct laryngoscopy: This is done in a hospital under general sleep medicine (anaesthesia). It gives a much better view. If anything looks strange, the doctor will take a tissue sample (biopsy).
If the doctor finds a lump, they will remove a small piece of it. This goes to a lab. A lab expert checks it under a microscope to see if it is cancer. They will also see what type it is—most often, it’s squamous cell cancer. The lab will also check how fast the cancer cells are growing.
Imaging and cancer staging
After cancer is confirmed, doctors need to see how far it has spread. This step is called staging. It helps them decide the best way to treat it. Several types of scans are used:
- CT scan: This checks the size of the tumour and whether it has spread to nearby areas or lymph nodes.
- MRI scan: This gives clear pictures of soft tissues. It helps doctors see how close the tumour is to important nerves and blood vessels.
- PET-CT scan: This combines two types of scans. It shows both the shape and activity of the tumour. It’s helpful to spot cancer that may have spread far.
- Chest X-ray: This checks if cancer has moved to the lungs. It’s often used in smokers.
- Ultrasound: Sometimes used to look at neck glands. If there’s a lump, doctors can take a sample with a thin needle.
Doctors then use the TNM system to stage the cancer:
- T for tumour size
- N for lymph node spread
- M for spread to distant organs
These details give the cancer a stage from 0 to IV. Lower stages (0–II) are often small and still inside the voice box. These cases may only need surgery or radiation. Advanced stages (III–IV) may need more than one type of treatment.
Assessing voice and emotional health
Another part of the diagnosis of Laryngeal (larynx) cancer involves checking how well the voice works. Doctors may record the patient’s voice or test its quality. This helps with planning voice recovery, especially if surgery may affect the vocal cords. In some cases, a speech therapist joins early to help patients prepare.
Doctors may also ask for blood tests. These tests don’t confirm cancer, but they show if the body is healthy enough for treatment. Tests might include blood counts, liver and kidney checks, or signs of poor nutrition if the person feels tired or has lost weight.
The emotional side matters too. Hearing that you have laryngeal cancer—especially with the risk of losing your voice—can be very upsetting. That’s why mental health care is part of the process. Counsellors, support groups, and psychologists can help people deal with their fears.
Summary of the diagnosis of Laryngeal (larynx) cancer
To sum up, the diagnosis of Laryngeal (larynx) cancer follows a careful plan. It starts with a doctor’s exam, then moves to a close look with laryngoscopy, and finally a biopsy confirms the result. Doctors use scans to find the cancer’s stage. The whole process helps begin treatment early, which is key to better results.
Today, patients benefit from advanced tools, faster diagnosis, and care from many types of health professionals. These steps make sure treatment is right for each person. They also support the patient’s breathing, speaking, and overall well-being.
