What is pyriform sinus cancer?

Pyriform sinus cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the pyriform sinus, a pear-shaped area in the lower part of the throat, just above the uppermost part of the esophagus. As per the best oncologist in Kolkata, it is a type of oropharyngeal cancer that affects the back of your throat, including the base of your tongue, the tonsils, the soft palate, and the pharynx.

Pyriform sinus cancer, which is a type of oropharyngeal cancer, can cause several symptoms that may vary based on the size and location of the tumour, says a throat cancer doctor in Kolkata. Some common symptoms of pyriform sinus cancer include:

1. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) 2. Hoarseness or changes in voice 3. Persistent coughing 4 . Ear pain 5. Unintended weight loss 6. Persistent sore throat

Several factors may increase the risk of this type of cancer. Some of its causes have been mentioned below.

1. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, have been linked to an increased risk of oropharyngeal cancers, including pyriform sinus cancer. 2. Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, or using smokeless tobacco, significantly increases the risk of developing pyriform sinus cancer. 3. Heavy Alcohol consumption: Drinking large amounts of alcohol regularly over a long period of time can put you at risk of developing pyriform sinus cancer. 4. Poor diet: A diet low in vegetables and fruits may increase the risk of developing pyriform sinus cancer. 5. Age: Pyriform sinus cancer is more common in people over the age of 50. 6. Gender: Men are more likely to develop pyriform sinus cancer than women. 7. Exposure to certain chemicals: Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals, such as asbestos or wood dust, may increase the risk of developing pyriform sinus cancer.

Some common treatment options for pyriform sinus cancer include:

1. Radiation therapy : It uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. This therapy may be used in combination with surgery or alone, depending on the size and location of the tumour. 2. Chemotherapy : According to a chemotherapy doctor in Kolkata, it uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used alone or in combination with radiation therapy or surgery. 3. Targeted therapy : It is a type of treatment that uses drugs to specifically target cancer cells. Targeted therapy may be used in combination with other treatments, depending on the specific type of pyriform sinus cancer. 4. Immunotherapy : Immunotherapy is the kind of treatment that helps your body’s immune system to fight cancer. Immunotherapy may be used alone or along with other treatments, depending on the specific type of pyriform sinus cancer. 5. Surgery : Surgery removes the tumour and any affected lymph nodes. In some cases, a partial or total laryngectomy may be necessary to remove the tumour.