Nasal Cancer

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nasal cancer picturesNasal cancer builds when cells of the lining of the nasopharynx start to mutate. Soon, a cancerous lump or malignant tumour is created which then arises to the brain, ears and the jaw. The cancer also spreads into the lymph glands of the neck. Nasal cancer can also spread to the bones and lungs via the bloodstream.

Identified Risk Factors linked to Nasal cancer

1. Epstein Barr Virus (EB Virus) This virus has an affiliation with nasal cancer.
2. Diet Consuming a variety of salted foodstuff such as salted vegetables, fish and meat is an associated risk.
3. Genetic Factors The genetic makeup of certain individuals may predispose them to nasal cancer.

Nasal Cancer

1. The most obvious sign (90%) is a lump in the neck. That indicates a swollen lymph node invaded by cancer cells.
2. Nosebleed, blocked nose and mucus production.
3. Buzzing noise, discharge from the ear, hearing loss and pain,.
4. Voice become hoarse and difficulty in swallowing.
5. Facial paralysis on one side.

Diagnosis Of Nasal Cancer

1. Nasal Endoscopy The procedure involves introducing a flexible fiber-optic tube with a light at its tip into the nose. The nasopharynx is examined visually and any suspicious lump is removed and examined for a biposy.
2. CT scan of the head and neck This type of scan reveals the extent to which the cancer has spread.
3. Blood test to verify the level of antibodies against EB virus.  If the level of antibodies is high,then nasal cancer is suspected.
4. Chest, abdominal CT scans and bone scans are required to determine if the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.

Nasal Cancer Treatment

1. Radiotherapy Radiotherapy is the use of high-energy x-rays to destroy cancer cells. Nasal cancer responds well to radiotherapy and is utilized as the main treatment option. Radiotherapy is given daily 6 weeks. Temporary side effects include redness of the skin on the neck, dry mouth and throat, mouth ulcers, loss of sense of taste and appetite. The lymph nodes in the neck will also undergo radiotherapy.
2. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy is a medical procedure which uses toxic drugs to kill cancer cells. Its role in nasal cancer treatment is limited and is used in 2 situations: a. Advanced nasal cancer which has spread to the bones, liver and lungs.
b. In combination with radiotherapy to improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy.
3. Surgery The role of surgery is limited in nasal cancer because of the difficulty in removing the cancer without injuring vital neighboring organs. If nasal cancer recurs in an area which had received radiotherapy before, surgery can be used to remove the recurrence.

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Related posts:

  1. Nasal Cancer
  2. Nose Cancer Symptoms
  3. Pharyngeal Cancer
  4. Cancer Metastasis
  5. Bone Cancer

October 16th, 2010 admin Posted in Cancer | No Comments »

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