Tumours of the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and hypopharynx

The pharynx (Greek for throat) is a 12 cm fibromuscular tube extending from the base of the skull above and fusing with the oesophagus below. The pharynx is the common entrance point for respiration and digestion and is divided into the three regions based on its anterior communications—the nasopharynx, the oropharynx and the laryngopharynx. Akin to three cups stacked one on top of the other, it is composed of three constrictor muscles inserting one into the other from superior to inferior, and three longitudinal muscles enabling elevation and dilatation. The pharynx serves the dual purpose of channelling food via the oesophagus into the digestive tract and enabling air to be directed via the larynx and trachea into the respiratory system. The pharyngeal structures also assist in vocalization of sounds and equalization of pressure within the middle ear. Management of pharyngeal neoplasia is challenging and is described in greater detail in published guidelines. This chapter summarizes the management of benign and malignant neoplastic diseases of the pharynx based on its anatomical subdivisions.