EMERGING IMAGING TECHNIQUES FOR THE EARLY DETECTION OF LARYNGEAL CARCINOMA

Throat cancer, primarily squamous cell carcinoma, constitutes a significant portion of head and neck and systemic tumors in China. The prevalence of throat tumors has seen an upward trend in recent years, and it exhibits regional disparities. Traditional risk factors like smoking and alcohol consumption have been strongly associated with throat cancer, characterized by symptoms such as hoarseness, sore throat, foreign body sensation, and swallowing difficulties. However, the landscape of this disease is evolving, with shifting demographics and emerging risk factors. Notably, oropharyngeal human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and gastroesophageal reflux have garnered recognition as critical risk factors in throat tumor development. HPV, particularly high-risk strains like HPV-16 and HPV-18, is increasingly implicated in oral cancers, surpassing the influence of smoking and drinking. A growing body of evidence links HPV infection in the throat to the onset of these tumors. Furthermore, gastroesophageal reflux disease, marked by gastric acid and bile reflux into the throat, has been associated with throat cancer. The refluxed substances erode the protective epithelial layers, induce inflammatory responses, and hinder the growth of throat cells. In this evolving landscape of throat cancer, understanding the role of these emerging risk factors, especially HPV infection and gastroesophageal reflux, is vital for early diagnosis and comprehensive management. Further research is needed to explore these connections and develop strategies for prevention and treatment.