1. What are the early symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancer?
Early symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancer are nonspecific, commonly including blood-stained postnasal secretions, unilateral nasal obstruction, tinnitus, ear fullness, and hearing loss. Painless cervical lymph node enlargement is a common initial symptom.
2. What is the relationship between nasopharyngeal cancer and Epstein-Barr virus?
Epstein-Barr virus infection is closely associated with nasopharyngeal cancer, and almost all patients test positive for Epstein-Barr virus DNA. Antibody testing is an important screening method,
3. Why is radiotherapy the main treatment for nasopharyngeal cancer?
The nasopharynx lies deep and is surrounded by many important structures, making complete surgical removal difficult. Most nasopharyngeal cancers are poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinomas that are highly radiosensitive, so radiotherapy is the first-line treatment.
4. What is concurrent chemoradiotherapy for nasopharyngeal cancer?
Standard treatment for intermediate and advanced nasopharyngeal cancer is radiotherapy with concurrent cisplatin chemotherapy. Chemoradiotherapy improves local control and survival. Induction chemotherapy can shrink the tumor before radiotherapy,
5. What targeted therapies and immunotherapies are available for nasopharyngeal cancer?
Anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies such as nimotuzumab can be combined with radiotherapy for locally advanced nasopharyngeal cancer.
6. What are the side effects of radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal cancer?
Common radiotherapy side effects include oral mucositis, dry mouth, altered taste, and skin reactions. Radiation-related dental caries and temporomandibular joint stiffness are long-term complications.
7. What follow-up is needed after nasopharyngeal cancer treatment?
Long-term regular follow-up is needed after treatment, every three months during the first two years, including nasopharyngoscopy, Epstein-Barr virus DNA testing, and neck MRI. Watch for signs of recurrence such as headaches and neck lumps.
