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Max Hospital, New Delhi [email protected]

Nasopharyngeal Cancer

Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) is a rare cancer that develops in the nasopharynx, located behind the nose and above the throat. Early diagnosis and expert care are crucial for effective treatment. We provide advanced, patient-focused treatment plans using modern oncology techniques for better outcomes.

Nasopharyngeal Cancer

Signs & Symptoms

  • Persistent nasal congestion or blockage
  • Frequent nosebleeds
  • Hearing loss or ringing in the ears
  • Lump or swelling in the neck
  • Persistent headaches


Causes & Risk Factors

  •  Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection
  •  Family history / genetic factors
  •  Smoking & alcohol consumption
  •  Diet rich in salt-cured foods
  •  Exposure to chemicals or dust


Stages of Nasopharyngeal Cancer

  •  Stage 0: Cancer confined to lining
  •  Stage I: Limited to nasopharynx
  •  Stage II: Spread to nearby tissues/lymph nodes
  •  Stage III: Spread to surrounding structures
  •  Stage IV: Spread to distant organs


Diagnosis

  •  Nasopharyngoscopy (camera examination)
  •  Imaging tests (CT, MRI, PET scan)
  •  Biopsy for confirmation
  •  Blood tests (EBV markers)


Treatment Options

  •  Radiation Therapy: Primary treatment using advanced techniques like IMRT
  •  Chemotherapy: Used with radiation for advanced stages
  •  Immunotherapy: Enhances body’s ability to fight cancer


Expert Cancer Care

Early detection and the right treatment approach can significantly improve outcomes in nasopharyngeal cancer. Dr. Kumardeep Dutta Choudhury offers advanced, personalized care with a focus on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and improved quality of life.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

A rare type of cancer, NPC (nasopharyngeal cancer), starts in the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat above the nose. The majority are associated with EBV, smoking or certain dietary habits, and genetics.

Common symptoms include nasal congestion or blockages that last longer than a day or two, as well as lumps or swelling of the neck, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or hearing loss; advanced cases include facial numbness or headaches.

While the exact cause is unclear, several risk factors include Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, a diet consisting of salt-cured foods, or smoking and alcohol consumption.

  • Early stages: Appropriate treatment has high survival rates (up to 90%).
  • Advanced stages: Outcomes are improving, but rates are lower.

While it may not always be preventable, you can reduce the risk by avoiding tobacco and alcohol, keeping yourself healthy by diet and lifestyle, and timely consulting a nasopharyngeal cancer specialist in Delhi.