Carcinoma of the Nasopharynx: Experiences With 66 Patients

Abstract

CARCINOMA of the nasopharynx is the most malignant tumor of the upper respiratory and alimentary tract. It is one that is most frequently missed in its early stages. It has been estimated¹that in the average case a patient will have symptoms for three months before consulting a physician. After this, it takes another four months before the diagnosis is made. By the time the correct diagnosis has been made, symptoms of metastases may be the predominant clinical feature. New²in 1931 reported that in 194 patients with malignant lesions of the nasopharynx, 185 operations were done before the correct diagnosis was established. These operations included trepanation of the sinuses, removal of nasal polyps and turbinates, mastoidectomies, myringotomies, alcohol injections, and teeth extractions. Unfortunately, these same mistakes are still being repeated. This report deals with my experience with 66 patients and is a follow-up of my previous report