Published on March 6, 2024

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma


A cancer that starts in the area behind the nose and above the back of the throat, called the nasopharynx.

Overview

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a cancer that starts in the area behind the nose and above the back of the throat, called the nasopharynx. It's rare in the U.S. but more common in Southeast Asia.

Symptoms

Symptoms, if they occur, may include a lump in the neck, bloody saliva and bloody nasal discharge.

Treatments

Treatment usually includes radiation therapy, sometimes with chemotherapy.