Glottic cancer involves a cancerous growth in the part of the larynx consisting of the vocal cords and the opening between them. Although glottic cancer arises from a combination of genetics and environmental factors, the exact causes are not always known. Tobacco and alcohol use are some of the biggest risk factors for developing glottic cancer.
Common warning signs include voice changes and difficulty swallowing. Other possible symptoms include a lump in the neck, difficulty breathing, or throat pain. If a patient notices difficulty swallowing or changes in their voice, with or without any of these other symptoms, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible.
A combination of physical examination, endoscopy, radiologic imaging, and biopsy may be used to confirm a glottic cancer diagnosis prior to determining the best course of treatment. As with most head and neck cancers, laryngeal cancers can be treated with surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
