Nasopharyngeal cancer

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What is nasopharyngeal cancer?

Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) is a type of head and neck cancer that develops in the nasopharynx, the uppermost part of the throat located behind the nose and above the roof of the mouth. The nasopharynx acts as a passageway for air moving from the nose to the throat and lungs. It also helps filter the air you breathe and plays a role in voice production. Cancer occurs when cells in this area change (mutate) and grow out of control.

Nasopharyngeal cancer is treated by a team of head and neck surgeons, medical oncologists, and oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Penn Medicine’s Head and Neck Cancer program provides advanced diagnostic, surgical, and nonsurgical treatment for this disease.

Types of nasopharyngeal cancer

Nasopharyngeal cancer, also called nasopharyngeal carcinoma, can appear in several forms, and each type may require a different treatment approach. Penn Medicine provides care for all types of nasopharyngeal cancer, including:

Symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancers

Nasopharyngeal cancer can be hard to detect early because the symptoms often resemble less serious conditions. Many people don’t experience symptoms until the cancer has progressed.

Common symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancer include:

  • Trouble opening the mouth 
  • Double or blurred vision 
  • Ear infections and hearing problems 
  • Ear fullness or pain 
  • Ringing in the ear (tinnitus) 
  • Headaches 
  • A lump in the neck 
  • Stuffy nose and nosebleeds 
  • Facial pain or numbness 
  • Sore throat

Nasopharyngeal cancer risks and prevention

Nasopharyngeal cancer is rare, affecting about 1 in every 100,000 people nationwide. However, certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

How is nasopharyngeal cancer diagnosed?

Your doctor might diagnose nasopharyngeal cancer if you have symptoms like a lump in your neck or a persistently stuffy nose without other cold symptoms. A biopsy is the only way to know for sure.

Penn Medicine’s specialists are experts in the evaluation and diagnosis of all types of nasopharyngeal cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma, minor salivary gland cancer, lymphoma, and sarcoma. We offer the latest advancements in diagnostic tools and tests that provide the most accurate diagnosis.

X-ray
We use x-rays to diagnose broken bones, lung problems, and many other conditions.
CT scan
A CT scan helps diagnose traumatic injuries, cancer, vascular diseases, and many other conditions.
MRI
An MRI provides high-resolution images of the brain, spine, and many other structures in the body.
PET scan
A PET scan helps us diagnose diseases and plan treatment as early as possible.
Surgical biopsy
Surgical biopsy

Treating nasopharyngeal cancer

Nasopharyngeal tumors are most often treated with a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, or surgery alone. Our approach involves an individualized treatment plan tailored to the type and stage of your cancer. We’ve pioneered advanced surgical and nonsurgical treatments for nasopharyngeal cancer to offer the best possible outcomes. 

Nasopharyngeal cancer support services

At Penn Medicine, we provide a range of support programs and services to help you manage the physical and emotional impacts of a cancer diagnosis and treatment. We believe that care should extend beyond medical treatment, offering you tools to handle every stage of the process—from understanding your disease to managing treatment side effects to recovery and emotional support.

Our support services for nasopharyngeal cancer include:

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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Our ENT specialists offer comprehensive care and leading-edge ear, nose, and throat treatments.
Head and neck surgery
Our renowned head and neck surgeons deliver expert treatments and exceptional outcomes.

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