Vocal cord cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the larynx region, especially on the vocal cords. This type of cancer generally has a high chance of early diagnosis because it gives early symptoms. While the most common cause is smoking, alcohol, reflux, and prolonged vocal cord irritation are also among risk factors.
The most prominent and warning symptom in the early stage is hoarseness. If your hoarseness lasts longer than two weeks, endoscopic examination must definitely be performed by an Ear Nose Throat (ENT) specialist. Symptoms that may raise suspicion of cancer in the vocal cord include prolonged hoarseness, voice cracking or deepening, voice tiring quickly, burning, stinging sensation in throat, or foreign body sensation. As the tumor grows, it can spread to surrounding tissues and pain when swallowing, unilateral ear pain (referred pain), shortness of breath, wheezing breathing, palpable mass in neck, and weight loss can develop.
Prolonged hoarseness should always be taken seriously, especially in people who smoke.
Vocal cord cancer is staged according to tumor size and spread.
Diagnosis of vocal cord cancer is made by endoscopic larynx examination and biopsy. CT or MRI evaluates spread. PET/CT is needed for lymph node and distant metastasis evaluation in advanced stages.
Treatment is planned according to stage and patient’s general condition. In early stage cancers, endoscopic laser surgery or radiotherapy is preferred. In more advanced stage cancers, partial or total laryngectomy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy combinations can be applied. The aim is complete removal of tumor and preservation of voice as much as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is vocal cord cancer only seen in smokers?
No. Smoking is the most important risk factor but reflux, alcohol, chemical exposure, and HPV infection can also play a role.
2. How long should hoarseness last before I go to doctor?
Hoarseness lasting longer than two weeks must definitely be evaluated by an ENT specialist.
3. Is voice preserved in early diagnosed vocal cord cancer?
Yes. In early stage cases, treatment is generally possible while preserving voice quality.
4. Is vocal cord cancer contagious?
No, it is not contagious.
5. Can vocal cord cancer recur?
Yes, especially if smoking continues or regular follow-up is not done, it can recur. Therefore, regular controls are very important.
Note from Prof. Dr. Elif Aksoy
“Prolonged hoarseness is an alarm finding that should be noticed in the early period, especially in people who smoke. Early diagnosed vocal cord cancer provides great advantage both in terms of treatment success and voice preservation.”
Prof. Dr. Elif Aksoy
Ear Nose Throat Diseases Specialist
Voice and Swallowing Disorders
