Nasopharyngeal Cancer

Nasopharyngeal cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that affects the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat behind the nose.

Symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancer

A lump in your neck caused by swollen lymph nodes
Bloody discharge from your nose
Nasal congestion
Trouble breathing or speaking.
Hearing loss
Frequent ear infections
Headaches

When to see a doctor

See your doctor if you notice any unusual and persistent alterations in your head and neck area that don't appear right to you, such as unusual nasal congestion, nosebleed or neck lump.

Causes

Epstein-Barr virus has been identified as a causal link for this type of cancer.

Risk factors

Gender (nasopharyngeal carcinoma is more common in men)
Race (this type of cancer is rare in Jordan but common in China)
Age (it is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 15–25 and 50–60)
Consuming salt-cured foods and preserved vegetables
Previous diagnosis with the Epstein-Barr virus, which predicts a better outcome

Prevention

Avoid preserved food consumption and EBV infection.

Screening and early detection

Routine screening for this disease isn't done.

Diagnosis of nasopharyngeal cancer

Physical exam and tissue sample
Blood tests
Head and neck MRI
PET/CT scan
Other imaging as clinically indicated

Treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Treatment for nasopharyngeal carcinoma usually includes radiation therapy, a combination of radiation and chemotherapy, or chemotherapy alone.