Throat Cancer Treatment in Gurgaon, India

Throat cancer refers to the malignant tumours that occur in the tonsils, larynx, or throat (pharynx). Given its complexity and the delicate area it affects, this condition needs fast and specialised care. The availability of state-of-the-art facilities and skilled oncologists greatly increases the likelihood of early diagnosis, successful treatment, and improved recovery outcomes for patients in Gurgaon, India.

What is Throat Cancer?

Throat cancer develops when cells in the throat start to grow out of control and form a tumour. It can impact the tonsils, larynx, or pharynx, among other areas of the throat. If treatment is delayed, this cancer may stay localised or spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes and lungs.

What are the Different Types of Throat Cancer?

Throat cancer refers to cancers that begin in different parts of the throat and voice box. The exact location of origin helps determine the type:

1. Nasopharyngeal Cancer: Starts in the upper throat behind the nose. It’s more common in parts of Asia. Symptoms may include nasal blockage, frequent nosebleeds, and hearing loss on one side.

2. Oropharyngeal Cancer: Affects the middle throat—tonsils, base of tongue, and soft palate. Often linked to HPV and seen in younger adults. Symptoms include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and neck lumps.

3. Hypopharyngeal Cancer: Begins in the lower part of the throat near the windpipe and oesophagus. It’s aggressive and often found late. Signs include hoarseness, throat discomfort, and ear pain.

4. Laryngeal Cancer: Develops in the voice box (larynx). Depending on the area affected, it may cause hoarseness, voice changes, or trouble breathing.

5. HPV-Related Throat Cancer: Caused by HPV, especially type 16, and often affects the oropharynx. Common in younger non-smokers, it usually responds well to treatment and has a better outlook.

What are the Different Stages of Throat Cancer?

Throat cancer progresses through distinct stages that influence the prognosis and treatment strategy:

• Stage 0 (Carcinoma in Situ): Only the throat lining contains abnormal cells in stage 0 (carcinoma in situ). If treated early, this stage, which is the earliest precancerous stage, has a very good prognosis.

• Stage 1: A tiny tumour (usually less than 2 cm) that is limited to a single throat region, like a tonsil or one side of the larynx. No lymph nodes or other distant organs are affected.

• Stage 2: Although the tumour has grown (2–4 cm), it is still located in the same area. Though it hasn't reached lymph nodes or other body parts, it may have an impact on multiple nearby structures.

• Stage 3: The cancer has either reached one regional lymph node, expanded considerably in size, or spread to neighbouring tissues. Symptoms could include a noticeable lump on the neck, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing.

• Stage 4: This is the most advanced stage. Either cancer has widespread in the throat and surrounding tissues (Stage IVA), or spread to distant organs such as the liver, lungs, or bones (Stage IVC) or involves several or large lymph nodes (Stage IVB).

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Throat Cancer?

Early intervention for throat cancer requires an understanding of its symptoms. Typical symptoms consist of:

• Sore throat that lasts for three months or more

• Swallowing issues, hoarseness or changes in voice

• A cancerous lump in the throat

• A burning feeling in the throat

• Prolonged coughing, occasionally accompanied by blood

• White spots in the throat, particularly in the beginning

• Loss of weight without a cause

• Ear ringing or pain

Symptoms of throat cancer in women and men hormonal or anatomical variations may cause slight variations in throat cancer symptoms.

How is Throat Cancer Caused?

Although the precise causes of throat cancer are sometimes unclear, the following are typical causes:

• Use of tobacco (both smokeless and smoking)

• Drinking too much alcohol

• Infection with HPV

• GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease,

• Inadequate oral hygiene

• Extended exposure to toxic substances

What are the Risk Factors for Throat Cancer?

The following are important risk factors for throat cancer:

• Male Gender

• Over 50 years of age

• Alcohol misuse and smoking

• Inadequate consumption of fruits and vegetables

• Asbestos exposure, as well as other industrial pollutants

• History of head and neck cancers in the family

When to Consult the Physician?

Treatment results can be considerably enhanced by early detection. Speak with an expert if you encounter:

• Hoarseness or white spots are signs of early-stage throat cancer.

• Symptoms that have lasted longer than two weeks

• Having trouble swallowing or breathing

• Fatigue or unexplained weight loss

How is Throat Cancer Diagnosed?

Choosing the best course of treatment for throat cancer requires a precise diagnosis. Usually, the procedure includes the following crucial steps:

Health History and Physical Assessment

The physician starts by going over your medical history, both personal and family, as well as lifestyle choices like drinking alcohol, smoking, and being around irritants. Finding any strange lumps, swelling, or anomalies is aided by a physical examination of the throat, mouth, and neck.

Test for Throat Cancer

Additional diagnostic tests are carried out if cancer is suspected. These could involve imaging tests and tissue sampling to verify the existence and severity of the illness.

The Endoscopy

An endoscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with an endoscope through the mouth or nose to examine the inside of the throat. This makes it possible for doctors to spot tumors or growths that are not visible during a standard examination.

Imaging Test

In order to stage throat cancer and plan treatment, advanced imaging is essential:

• Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, produces fine-grained pictures of the soft tissues in the neck and throat.

• A computed tomography (CT) scan determines the size and location of tumors as well as whether they have spread to lymph nodes.

• A PET (positron emission tomography) scan can detect cancer that has spread to other body parts and assess how well a treatment is working.

Biopsy

A biopsy uses a microscope to examine a tissue sample in order to confirm the diagnosis. The sample can be obtained by:

• Aspiration using a fine needle (for neck lumps)

• Endoscopic biopsy (conducted as part of an endoscopy)

• A surgical biopsy (for more complicated or deeper lesions)

This step aids in identifying the grade, type, and potential responsiveness of the cancer to particular treatments.

What are the Treatment Options for Throat Cancer?

Care is personalized based on cancer type, stage, and overall health.

1. Surgery: Tumours are removed through precise surgical procedures, often used in the early stages. Complex cases may involve removing affected areas like the voice box.

2. Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams target and destroy cancer cells. It’s often used alone or with other treatments for better outcomes.

3. Chemotherapy: Medicines are used to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells. It may be given before or after surgery, or with radiation.

4. Targeted Therapy: Drugs are used to attack specific cancer cells with fewer side effects. Often combined with other treatments for improved results.

5. Immunotherapy: This boosts the immune system to fight cancer more effectively. It’s especially helpful in advanced or recurring cases.

What are the Complications of Untreated Throat Cancer?

If throat cancer is not treated promptly, it may result in the following complications:

• Speaking or swallowing difficulties

• Disfigurement following surgery

• Issues with the respiratory system

• Insufficient nourishment

• Spread to the lungs or other organs

• Psychological and emotional strain

How is Throat Cancer Prevented?

The following actions lower your risk, even though not all cases can be avoided:

• Stop smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.

• Reduce your alcohol consumption.

• Obtain an HPV vaccine.

• Continue to practice proper oral hygiene.

• Consume a nutritious diet high in antioxidants.

• Prevent acid reflux by treating it. 

Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Throat Cancer Treatment In Gurgaon?

Artemis Hospitals are nationally and internationally known for providing good, affordable and reliable treatment for the entire spectrum of ENT diseases and disorders. Our team of ENT doctors are adept at performing all routine as well as complicated procedures of the ear, nose and throat.

The department of ENT at Artemis is an all-inclusive, comprehensive unit with a list of diagnostic and therapeutic options under the same roof. A set of detailed tests and evaluations undertaken by a team of proficient ENT Surgeons and Audiologists determines the further course of action. We provide excellent state-of-the-art patient care in a supportive environment and conduct educational programs that provide excellent training in research and clinical care.

Our Services

• Airway surgeries like laryngotracheal reconstruction

• Endoscopic Ear surgeries

• Incision Less stapedotomy

• Paediatric Otolaryngology

• Rhinology

• Otology

• Laryngology & Voice Clinic

• Cochlear Implant

• Audiology and speech therapy

• Allergy Clinic and Immunotherapy

• Swallowing Therapy

• Vertigo Clinic

To book an appointment with top ENT surgeons at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.

Reviewed By Dr. Poonam Gautam
Sr. Consultant - ENT, ENT Surgery
Artemis Hospital

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the survival rate of throat cancer?

Survival rates for throat cancer depend on how early it is diagnosed. At Artemis Hospital, patients diagnosed in the early stages often see survival rates above 70%, reinforcing the need for prompt medical attention.

Is throat cancer curable?

Yes, throat cancer is curable, especially when caught early. At Artemis Hospital, treatment plans are customized and may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination, depending on each case.

What conditions can be mistaken for throat cancer?

Conditions like chronic sore throat, acid reflux (GERD), tonsillitis, or non-cancerous growths can mimic throat cancer symptoms. Artemis Hospital emphasizes thorough evaluation for accurate diagnosis.

How can I check myself for throat cancer?

Be aware of signs such as a persistent sore throat, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or a lump in the neck lasting more than two weeks. If any of these appear, Artemis specialists recommend getting examined without delay.

Can someone have throat cancer for years without knowing it?

Yes, early throat cancer may not show obvious symptoms. Artemis encourages regular screenings and not ignoring subtle or persistent throat issues.

Can acid reflux lead to throat cancer?

Chronic acid reflux can damage the throat lining and increase cancer risk over time. Artemis doctors consider GERD a contributing factor in some throat cancer cases.

How is throat cancer different from a regular throat infection?

A regular throat infection usually clears up in a week or two. Throat cancer symptoms persist and often worsen. If symptoms last more than three weeks, Artemis recommends seeing a specialist.

Are HPV-related throat cancer treatments available in Gurgaon?

Yes, Artemis Hospital offers advanced care for HPV-related throat cancers, including the latest diagnostic tools and targeted treatment options.

Which hospitals in Gurgaon have throat cancer specialists?

Artemis Hospital is one of the leading centers in Gurgaon with a team of experienced oncologists and ENT surgeons dedicated to throat cancer care.

Is robotic surgery for throat cancer available in Gurgaon?

Yes, Artemis Hospital offers robotic-assisted surgery for throat cancer. This approach allows for greater precision, smaller incisions, and faster recovery.

Does Artemis Hospital in Gurgaon treat throat cancer near me?

Yes. Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon provides complete care for throat cancer—from diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation—under one roof with a multidisciplinary approach.