Laryngeal Cancer Diagnosis
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Diagnosing Laryngeal Cancer
Tumors in the larynx may affect your ability to swallow, speak or breathe normally. If symptoms are present, your doctor might request an endoscopy to look into the throat, ears or nose. An endoscopy is a type of diagnostic exam where a tube with a small camera is used to visually inspect for signs of cancer.
A laryngoscope is a similar device designed specifically for looking into the glottis (voice box) to examine the vocal cords. During either of these procedures your doctor is able to take tissue samples (biopsy) to confirm the presence of cancer.
Imaging Tests for Laryngeal Cancer
The following imaging tests may provide more details about the tissues affected by laryngeal cancer:
- Ultrasound – This technology uses sound waves to provide echoes of your internal organs. The echoes that tumors produce are different than those of healthy tissues.
- CT (computerized tomography) scan – This scan uses X-ray images to show your internal organs
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) – An MRI uses radiofrequency waves to create detailed cross-sectional images.
- PET scan (Positron Emission Tomography) – This X-ray procedure uses a computer to generate detailed pictures of what is happening in your body for laryngeal cancer diagnosis and treatment.
The results of these diagnostic tests help to stage laryngeal cancer using Roman numerals I-IV.
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