Hypopharyngeal cancer

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:

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.

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.
National Cancer Institute Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center badge on top of shot of hospital

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.

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