Hypopharyngeal cancer
Hypopharyngeal cancer is a rare type of cancer in the lining (squamous cell carcinoma) that occurs in the lower part of the throat. Hypopharyngeal cancer usually occurs in men over 50 years old.
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Read more about the symptoms and the most common tests and treatments for hypopharyngeal cancer on this page.
Causes and symptoms hypopharyngeal cancer
Hypopharyngeal cancer can cause the following symptoms:
- pain, sometimes radiating towards the ears
- difficulty swallowing
- lump in the throat
- hoarseness
- swollen lymph nodes in the neck
The main risk factors for the development of hypopharyngeal cancer are smoking and heavy alcohol use. These risks further increase if oral, throat, or lung cancer occurs in the family.