Publication:

Clinical study of carcinoma of larynx: a retrospective analysis

Background Carcinoma of larynx is the third most common cancer in head and neck, sixth most common cancer among men in India. This study aims to identify the patterns of clinical presentation, epidemiological features and management of laryngeal carcinoma in a tertiary care centre of Indian armed forces.

Methods This is a retrospective analysis of patients admitted in a Command hospital from January 2007 to December 2009.

Results A total of 28 patients were treated in 3 year duration. All the patients were males. The majority of patients belonged to 7th decade of life with youngest 49 years old and the oldest 80 years. Supraglottic carcinoma (71%) was the most common laryngeal carcinoma followed by glottic carcinoma(29%).Hoarseness of voice (82%) was the most common presenting complaint followed by dysphagia (42%) and dysponea (21%). 32% of patients reported after initial emergency tracheostomy. 12 (42%) patients were treated with curative surgery, 4 (14%) were treated with curative radiotherapy. Rest of patients required palliative therapy.

Conclusions Laryngeal carcinoma is found predominantly in males at seventh decade of life and advanced stage. Treatment with curative intent may be possible in around 70% of patients.