Conditions: Throat Tumors
Many times, an enlargement or swelling in the throat is related to inflammation rather than a tumor. This page focuses on tumors, which may be benign or cancerous. Malignant (cancerous) tumors of the throat have the potential to spread to other parts of the body and can be life-threatening. Also, because of the location, both benign and malignant tumors of the throat, if large, may threaten the functions of swallowing, breathing, and talking and at times can be lethal due to blocking the airway. Evaluation involves a specialist’s examination, looking in the throat with a scope and performing a biopsy and/or imaging if needed.
Benign tumors of the throat
Benign tumors of the throat are non-cancerous growths that can occur in various regions, including the larynx, pharynx, and surrounding tissues. Common types include papillomas, which are often caused by viral infections and can lead to hoarseness or breathing difficulties, and lipomas, which are fatty tumors that generally do not cause symptoms unless they are large. While these tumors are typically not life-threatening, their presence can still impact swallowing and speech, necessitating monitoring or medical intervention in some cases. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through imaging studies and, when necessary, biopsy to rule out malignancy. Treatment options may include observation, surgical removal, or minimally invasive procedures, depending on the size and location of the tumor.
Cancerous (malignant) tumors of the throat
Malignant tumors of the throat, also known as throat cancers, primarily include squamous cell carcinoma, which arises from the cells lining the throat. These tumors can occur in various regions, including the pharynx, larynx, base of tongue, and tonsils. Risk factors include tobacco use and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Symptoms may present as difficulty swallowing, persistent sore throat, hoarseness, and unexplained weight loss. Other less common types of throat cancers include minor salivary gland cancers, lymphoma, and mucosal melanoma. Early detection is helpful for effective treatment, which may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's location and stage.
Other throat tumors
Beyond those listed above, there is a long list of additional tumors that can arise in the tissues of the neck, but not on the inner surface of the throat. These neck tumors can sometimes bulge toward the throat and therefore might mimic a tumor arising on the throat surface. These include parapharyngeal space tumors (schwannoma, glomus tumor, deep lobe of parotid tumor), sarcoma, lipomas, branchial cleft cysts, and more. The mainstay of diagnosis is pathologic examination of the tissue under a microscope, but radiologic imaging (such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI) often contribute.
Get the most from your throat tumor appointment
Appointment time is valuable. Below are some suggestions to make the most of your appointment. This preparation will help you and your doctor maximize efficiency and accuracy, freeing up time for questions and answers.
• Click here to prepare for your throat tumor appointment.
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