Nasopharyngeal Cancer

Several types of tumors can develop in the nasopharynx. Some of these tumors are benign (non-cancerous), but others are malignant (cancerous). It’s important to discuss what type of tumor you might have with your doctor. 

Scripps cancer specialists are experts in detecting and diagnosing nasopharyngeal cancer to plan the best course of treatment.

The following tests and procedures may be used to diagnose nasopharyngeal cancer:

Direct and indirect nasopharyngoscopy

During direct nasopharyngoscopy, the physician inserts a fiber-optic nasopharyngoscope into the nose to view the lining of the nasopharynx. During indirect nasopharyngoscopy, the physician uses lights and small mirrors to see the nasopharynx.

Nasoscopy

Nasoscopy is when a physician inserts a nasoscope into the nose to view the inside of the nose for abnormalities.

Positron emission tomography (PET) scan

A PET scan involves a type of radioactive sugar that existing cancer cells will quickly absorb so they can be identified under a special camera. It’s combined with a CT scan to give physicians the ability to view a picture of potentially cancerous areas through the PET while also seeing more detailed images from a CT scan. 

Computed tomography (CT) scan

A CT scan uses X-rays to provide detail about the size, shape and location of any growths in the nasopharynx or surrounding areas.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

MRI uses radio waves to provide detailed images of areas inside the body and any abnormal growths.

X-ray

An X-ray of the possible area of cancer can look for tumors or show if there is any spread beyond the cancer’s origin.

Upper endoscopy

An upper endoscopy is when an endoscope is inserted through the mouth to look at the interior of the nose, throat and esophagus. An endoscope is a long, thin flexible tube with a lens and light.

Endoscopic biopsy

During endoscopic biopsy, a small tissue sample is taken through the use of an endoscope with a surgical tool attached to the end.

Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy

Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy uses a thin, hollow needle to remove tissue for testing to determine the cause of an enlarged lymph node in the neck and whether an endoscopic biopsy will be required as part of the diagnosis.

Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are usually combined as the primary treatment for nasopharyngeal cancer. Treatment of nasopharyngeal cancer may also include:

Radiation therapy

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is often part of a treatment plan for nasopharyngeal cancer depending on the extent of the cancer and other factors. It may also be used as part of palliative care for cancer that has spread. Radiation therapy is often used in combination with chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy and targeted therapies

Chemotherapy and targeted therapies is an important part of treatment for most patients with nasopharyngeal cancer. Immunotherapy treatment can be provided through the use of the drug cetuximab, which is known as a monoclonal antibody.

Surgery

Because of their location, surgery is rarely a primary treatment for nasopharyngeal cancer. In some cases, removal of the cancer may be possible through an endoscopic surgical procedure.

We are here for you — not only as your oncologists, but as a robust multidisciplinary team of experts who understands that your cancer journey is about much more than your medical treatment. Specifically, Scripps Cancer Center offers a variety of patient support services to ensure your physical, psychological and emotional well-being as well as resources for dealing with the logistical and financial aspects of cancer care. Our services and resources include:

• Oncology nurses and nurse navigators with extensive clinical expertise in cancer care to help guide you and your caregivers to make informed decisions and ensure your optimal care.
• Palliative care to provide an extra layer of supportive care to manage pain and relieve symptoms, offer emotional and spiritual support, and improve your quality of life. 
• Oncology social workers specially trained to provide counseling, connect you with community and medical resources, assist with transportation and housing and coordinate care after discharge.
• Our registered dietitian nutritionists offer individualized nutrition support for patients whose efforts to optimize their nutrition may be affected by cancer symptoms or treatment side effects.
• Referrals and professional care from experts in psychology, psychiatry and emotional health, including individual and family counseling to help with the emotional challenges of cancer.
• Physical rehabilitation and occupational therapy services, including wound care, voice therapy and swallowing therapy, lymphedema therapy, balance and vestibular rehabilitation, yoga and more.
• Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine for patients interested in mind-body healing through acupuncture, biofeedback, herbal nutrition, massage therapy, integrative cancer care and more.
• Nondenominational spiritual care offered by our chaplains to help coordinate spiritual care with your own clergy, rabbi or spiritual advisor.
• Visiting patient services if you reside beyond San Diego and want help arranging appointments or learning more about short-term lodging.

For the full spectrum of offerings, please visit our cancer patient support services section.