Tests and next steps for laryngeal cancer

Main tests for laryngeal cancer

If the GP or specialist thinks you might have laryngeal cancer, they will refer you for tests to look inside your throat.

The main tests for laryngeal cancer include:

• looking inside your nose, throat and mouth using a thin tube with a camera in it
• looking inside your throat at your voice box (larynx) using a thin tube with a camera in it – they may also remove a sample of cells from your voice box (called a biopsy)
• checking any lumps on your neck using a needle and syringe to take a sample

Getting your results

It can take several weeks to get the results of your tests.

You may be asked to go to the hospital to get your results, or they may be sent to you in the post.

Try not to worry if your results are taking a long time to get to you. It does not definitely mean anything is wrong.

You can call the hospital or GP if you're worried. They should be able to update you.

A specialist will explain what the results mean and what will happen next. You may want to bring someone with you for support.

If you're told you have laryngeal cancer

Being told you have laryngeal cancer can feel overwhelming. You may be feeling anxious about what will happen next.

It can help to bring someone with you to any appointments you have.

A group of specialists will look after you throughout your diagnosis, treatment and beyond.

This will include a clinical nurse specialist, who will be your main point of contact during and after treatment.

You can ask them any questions you have.

Next steps

If you've been told you have laryngeal cancer, you’ll usually need more tests.

You may need:

• scans, like a CT scan, MRI scan, ultrasound scan and PET scan
• a vocal cord check using a small video camera to see how they move when you speak
• a test to look at your nose, throat and upper part of your food pipe under local anaesthetic

You may not have all these tests.

These, along with other tests you've had, will help the specialists find out the size of the cancer and how far it's spread (called the stage).

The specialists will use the results of these tests and work with you to decide the best treatment plan for you.