What is hypopharyngeal cancer?
Hypopharyngeal cancer is an uncommon type of head and neck cancer that forms in the lower part of the throat (hypopharynx). The hypopharynx ensures that food goes around the voice box (larynx) and into the tube that moves food and liquid from the throat to the stomach (esophagus). Most hypopharyngeal cancers form in squamous cells, the thin, flat cells lining the inside of the hypopharynx.
Hypopharyngeal cancer is treated by a team of head and neck surgeons; ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors; oncologists; and oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Penn Medicine’s Head and Neck Cancer specialty provides advanced diagnostic, surgical, and nonsurgical treatment for this disease.
Types of hypopharyngeal cancers
Hypopharyngeal cancer can develop in several different ways, and depending on the type, will require different treatment plans.
Penn Medicine specialists treat these types of hypopharyngeal cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC)
- Mucoepidermoid carcinoma
- Adenocarcinoma
- Lymphoma
Symptoms of hypopharyngeal cancer
The symptoms of hypopharyngeal cancer can resemble those of less serious conditions. A persistent sore throat is the most common symptom. You might also feel like something is stuck in your throat.
Other possible symptoms include:
- Pain or trouble while swallowing (dysphagia)
- Unexplained weight loss
- A lump in the neck
- Hoarseness
- Ongoing cough
- Swollen lymph nodes
Hypopharyngeal cancer risks and prevention
Hypopharyngeal cancer is rare, with only 2,000 to 4,000 cases reported each year nationwide. However, people with the following risk factors may have a higher chance of developing the disease.
Smoking and drinking alcohol can significantly increase the risk of developing hypopharyngeal cancer, especially if you do both. Older people who were assigned male at birth and have a history of tobacco and alcohol use are particularly at risk. Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce your chances of getting this type of cancer.
People with vitamin and mineral deficiencies are at increased risk for hypopharyngeal cancer. Nutrients like iron and vitamin C are important for maintaining healthy cell function and a strong immune system. Without these nutrients, the body becomes more vulnerable to cancerous cell growth, especially in the throat. Additionally, a diet low in fruits and vegetables deprives the body of antioxidants that help protect against cancer development.
People with difficulty swallowing may have a higher risk of developing hypopharyngeal cancer. The disease can also worsen due to difficulty swallowing or choking when food or liquid enters the airway (aspiration).
People with hypopharyngeal cancer will often be tested for HPV as a possible factor in developing the disease. However, there’s currently no strong link between HPV infection and this type of cancer, unlike the connection seen with oropharyngeal cancers.
People with Plummer-Vinson syndrome (PVS) often have trouble swallowing and may develop iron-deficiency anemia, a swollen tongue (glossitis), swollen lips (cheilosis), and thin membranes in the upper esophagus (esophageal webs). They also have a higher risk of developing throat cancers, including hypopharyngeal cancer.
Research suggests that people who were assigned male at birth are more likely to develop hypopharyngeal cancer than those assigned female at birth. This may be due to higher historical rates of smoking and drinking among people assigned male at birth.
GERD happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. It may increase the risk of cancer in the throat and lower part of the hypopharynx.
People with anemia often have blood issues from a young age. They also have a much higher risk of developing cancers in the throat, voice box, and the middle part of the throat (oropharynx).
People with certain genetic conditions, deficiencies, or syndromes may be at a higher risk for developing hypopharyngeal cancer. Examples include inherited conditions like Fanconi anemia and genetic disorders like dyskeratosis congenita.
Diagnosing hypopharyngeal cancer
If your doctor suspects hypopharyngeal cancer, they’ll start by looking inside your mouth and throat with a laryngoscope. If any abnormalities are found, they may order additional tests.
Penn Medicine’s specialists are experts in the evaluation and diagnosis of all types of hypopharyngeal cancers. We use the latest diagnostic tools and tests to ensure the most accurate diagnosis.
Treating hypopharyngeal cancer
Treatment for hypopharyngeal cancer most often combines surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, or surgery alone. Penn Medicine has pioneered many of the latest advancements in head and neck cancer treatment. We tailor the treatment plan to your type and stage of cancer to provide the best possible outcome.
Penn Medicine and hypopharyngeal cancer
We’re leading the way in the treatment of all types of hypopharyngeal cancers including squamous cell carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), mucoepidermoid carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and lymphoma. When you come to Penn Medicine for care you’ll also find:
- Pioneering technology: We created many of the latest surgical and nonsurgical treatment techniques, including transoral robotic surgery (TORS), which can reduce the risk of long-term swallowing problems.
- Skilled reconstructive surgeons: Our team can provide reconstruction of the throat after hypopharyngeal tumor treatment to improve your ability to swallow.
- Support programs: We offer services, like oncology nurse navigators, to handle every stage of the process—from understanding your disease to managing treatment side effects to recovery and emotional support.
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.