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Nasopharyngeal cancer treatment is the medical assistance to eradicate or control the cancer arising from the nasopharynx (the upper region of the throat behind the nose). The objective is to destroy cancer cells, palliate symptoms, and prevent recurrence.

Treatment for nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) aims to remove the tumour, stop it from spreading, and protect the surrounding tissues, including the ears, nose, and throat. Additionally, it aids in the relief of symptoms such as neck lumps, hearing loss, nosebleeds, and nasal congestion. Treatment is essential to increase survival, lower recurrence, and preserve quality of life.

Preparation includes a thorough physical examination, nasendoscopy, biopsy, and imaging tests like MRI, CT, or PET scans to determine the extent of the cancer. EBV indicators and blood tests may also be assessed. Follow your oncology team's pre-treatment guidelines.

Radiation Therapy (Mainstay): The mainstay of radiation therapy is intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which accurately targets the tumour while preserving healthy tissue.
Chemotherapy: In moderate to advanced stages, chemotherapy is frequently used in conjunction with radiation. Cisplatin and other medications are used to increase the effectiveness of treatment.
Surgery (Rarely Used): Surgery is rarely used for persistent or recurring cancers that do not improve with chemotherapy or radiation.
Targeted Therapy/Immunotherapy: Based on biomarker testing, targeted therapy or immunotherapy may be considered in advanced or metastatic situations.

Usually, radiation therapy lasts six to seven weeks. Depending on the course of treatment, chemotherapy is given in cycles either during or after this time. Weeks to months may pass before side symptoms subside, and years of long-term monitoring may be necessary.

Dry mouth or difficulty swallowing
Fatigue and nausea
Hearing loss
Neck stiffness or fibrosis
Risk of local recurrence or distant spread
Dental issues due to radiation exposure
Rare risk of secondary malignancies

Timely and personalised treatment improves tumour control, enhances survival rates, and relieves symptoms. Modern radiation and chemotherapy regimens are highly effective in early to moderate stages, and advancements in therapy options offer hope even in advanced cases.

Although surgery is uncommon, coping with chemoradiation side effects like exhaustion, dry lips, and trouble swallowing is part of the rehabilitation process. Rehabilitation requires monthly ENT or oncology follow-up, speech therapy, and nutrition support.

Over 85% of patients with early-stage NPC survive for five years, indicating a good cure rate. Although rates are lower in advanced stages, combination therapeutic approaches increase outcomes. Long-term surveillance ensures prompt care of late effects or recurrence.

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Explore Hospitals ( 2 )

Apollo Multispecialty Hospitals

Kolkata, India

Apollo Multispecialty Hospitals located in Kolkata, India is accredited by JCI, NABH. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

International patient Center
Focus on research and innovation
Different amenities: Transport, Security, Travel Desk, Places of Worship, Telecommunication Service, Special Nurse, Food & Dietary Services
Several kinds of rooms: General ward, Semi Private Rooms, Private Rooms, Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Suite, Maharaja Suite, HDU, Gastro ICU, Emergency, Neonatal ICU, Level 1, Level 2 & Level 3
Health Insurance coverage available
Here is a comprehensive list of the various kinds of key medical procedures performed through the latest technology.
Arthroscopy
Bone Marrow Transplant
Cosmetic Surgery
Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System
Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR)
Hand Microsurgery
Hip Arthroscopy
Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery
Minimally Invasive Subvastus Total Knee Replacement
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
128 Slice PET CT
Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold (BVS)
ECMO
OCT Technique - Optical Coherence Tomography
Single Port Endoscopic technique of Carpal Tunnel Release (ECTR)

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DOCTORS IN 13 SPECIALITIES

17+

FACILITIES & AMENITIES

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Fortis Hospital

Kolkata, India

Fortis Hospital & Kidney Institute, Kolkata, is a 60-bed specialised centre for Urology and Nephrology, serving patients across Eastern India. Since its inauguration in 1999, the institute has pioneered advanced treatments like lithotripsy, laparoscopic donor nephrectomy, PCNL, and Holmium Laser prostate surgery, and has performed over 570 kidney transplants. Spread over 6 floors, it offers 4 operating theatres, a 12-bed dialysis unit, 24-hour renal emergencies, and a fully equipped laboratory, providing comprehensive, patient-focused care in renal and urological health.

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DOCTORS IN 12 SPECIALITIES

17+

FACILITIES & AMENITIES

Price On Request

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Dr. Vijita Jayan

BPT, MPT (Neuro)

18 Years of Experience

With over 18 years of distinguished clinical experience, Dr. Vijita Jayan is a highly accomplished Clinical Director and Rehabilitation Specialist, renowned for her expertise in neuro-rehabilitation, functional recovery, and mobility-dependent case management. Her extensive practical knowledge enables her to design and implement individualized, evidence-based rehabilitation protocols that consistently yield measurable patient outcomes. A prolific researcher and academic writer, she has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and research papers, significantly advancing the field of rehabilitative medicine. The recipient of multiple prestigious accolades, Dr. Jayan is widely regarded as one of the foremost authorities in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, continually shaping neuro-rehabilitative care through research, innovation, and clinical excellence.. View More

Reviewer

Dr Prateek Varshney

Surgical Oncologist

15 Years of Experience

Dr. Prateek Varshney is a renowned Surgical Oncologist. He has experience of more than 15+ years in surgical Oncology. He is currently practicing as a consultant at Metro Mass Hospital and Cancer Institute. He was also previously associated as a consultant with Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and as a professor at Gujarat Cancer Research Institute. View More

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