Laryngeal Cancer Diagnosis

Laryngeal cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the mucosa of the larynx, usually arising from squamous epithelial cell carcinoma. If not identified early, it may rapidly progress and affect vocalization, swallowing, and breathing functions. A confirmed diagnosis requires a combination of imaging, endoscopy, and tissue biopsy to comprehensively assess the lesion’s location, extent, and possible metastasis, providing an accurate basis for subsequent treatment.

Diagnostic Basis

1. Laryngoscopy (Direct observation of the lesion)
Laryngoscopy is an important method for the preliminary diagnosis of laryngeal cancer. Using indirect or fiberoptic laryngoscopy, clinicians can observe whether the vocal cords have abnormal movement, masses, erosions, or ulcer-like changes. If suspicious lesions are found, biopsy should be performed immediately to determine the pathological nature.

2. Pathological Biopsy (the “gold standard” for diagnosis)
Obtaining tissue samples from the lesion and performing microscopic pathological analysis is the core step in confirming laryngeal cancer. Pathology results can clarify the tumor type (e.g., squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma), degree of differentiation, and whether it is carcinoma in situ or invasive carcinoma, providing the basis for treatment planning.

3. Imaging Examinations (Assessment of lesion extent)
CT or MRI can help determine the depth of tumor invasion, involvement of adjacent tissues, and whether there is cervical lymph node enlargement. MRI is more advantageous in assessing soft tissue invasion, while CT is better for analyzing possible laryngeal cartilage destruction.

4. Ultrasound and Fine Needle Aspiration (Cervical lymph node evaluation)
Cervical lymph node metastasis is common in laryngeal cancer. Ultrasound can identify abnormal enlarged lymph nodes, and when combined with fine needle aspiration biopsy, it improves the detection rate of early cervical metastases and assists in clinical neck management decisions.

5. PET-CT (Distant metastasis screening)
In advanced laryngeal cancer or during preoperative preparation, PET-CT can detect distant metastases, commonly in the lungs, bones, or liver. This aids in staging and treatment planning.

6. Acoustic Analysis and Voice Function Evaluation
Some early laryngeal cancers may present as hoarseness without obvious masses. Acoustic testing and voice quality analysis can assist in evaluating changes in vocal cord function, supporting the identification of hidden early lesions when combined with other examinations.

7. Respiratory Function Evaluation (Preoperative preparation)
For patients with laryngeal cancer potentially affecting airway patency, preoperative respiratory function evaluation is essential. If significant airway narrowing or breathing difficulties exist, tracheostomy or other interventions should be considered in advance.

8. Staging System (TNM Staging)
Once diagnosed, staging should follow the TNM system: T represents the size and location of the primary tumor, N indicates the involvement of regional lymph nodes, and M represents distant metastasis. Staging directly influences treatment choices and prognosis.

9. Molecular Markers (Auxiliary in recurrence and metastasis prediction)
With the advancement of precision medicine, some laryngeal cancers can be tested for molecular markers such as p53 and EGFR. These markers help analyze tumor biological behavior and treatment sensitivity, providing theoretical support for targeted therapies.

Conclusion

Experts at the United Life International Medical Center remind that early detection of laryngeal cancer is crucial for successful treatment. If persistent hoarseness, throat foreign body sensation, or swallowing difficulties occur, medical examination should be sought promptly. Multiple imaging and pathological methods can accurately evaluate the condition and lay the foundation for the application of new therapies such as immune reconstitution cell therapy.