Successful Stage IV Post-Cricoid Cancer Treatment in a 52-Year-Old Woman from Gadag

 

How Advanced Radiation Therapy Helped Defeat Post-Cricoid Malignancy

Introduction

Cancer of the post-cricoid region (part of the hypopharynx) is often diagnosed late due to subtle symptoms like throat discomfort or difficulty swallowing. However, modern cancer treatments such as IMRT radiation therapy and chemotherapy have made it possible to achieve excellent outcomes, even in advanced stages. This inspiring success story highlights the remarkable recovery of a 52-year-old woman from Gadag who battled Stage IV post-cricoid cancer and returned to a healthy, active life.

Patient’s Background and Symptoms

A 52-year-old female from Gadag presented with:

  • Difficulty swallowing solid food (dysphagia)

  • Voice change for 3 months, gradually worsening
    These symptoms are commonly ignored, but they are critical early signs of throat cancers and need immediate evaluation.

Diagnosis

  • Endoscopy detected a tumor in the hypopharynx (throat).

  • Biopsy confirmed Squamous Cell Carcinoma, a common type of throat cancer.

  • PET-CT scan showed a locally aggressive Stage IV tumor with advanced spread in the throat region. 

Because of the advanced stage, immediate combined treatment was planned to reduce tumor burden.

Treatment Plan

To improve cure chances and shrink the tumor, the patient initially received:

✔ Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

This helped reduce tumor size and prepare for further treatment.

✔ IMRT Radiation Therapy with Concurrent Chemotherapy

She was then referred for advanced radiation therapy.
33 fractions of IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) were delivered over 6 weeks using a modern LINAC machine, along with guided chemotherapy

IMRT precisely targets cancer while protecting vital structures like the voice box, nerves, and swallowing muscles.

Outcome and Recovery

Post-treatment assessments using Endoscopy and CECT Neck showed complete tumor response with no evidence of cancer.

  • The patient has now completed over 6 months of recovery.

  • She performs her daily tasks independently.

  • She reports feeling energetic, healthy, and almost back to her pre-cancer normal lifestyle.

  • She continues regular follow-up and remains cancer-free even after 7 months. 

Conclusion

This inspiring case proves that timely diagnosis and advanced treatment modalities like IMRT radiation therapy, when combined with chemotherapy, can successfully treat even Stage IV post-cricoid cancer. Early recognition of symptoms such as swallowing difficulty and voice change can save lives. With modern oncology expertise and technology, cancer patients today have every possibility of living a healthy and fulfilling life after treatment. Dr. M G Giriyappagoudar a radiation oncologist of north karnataka based in Hubli at Anvita Onco Clinic suggest women to consult early for these above mentioned symptoms to have better treatement outcomes with radiation therapy.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Image
  Cervical cancer is one of the leading cancers among women in India, but the good news is that it is highly preventable and treatable when detected early. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and informed. The Facts: Incidence and Mortality in India Cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among Indian women. Every year, over 1.23 lakh women in India are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and approximately 77,000 women lose their lives to this disease. Many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, making awareness and early detection crucial. What Causes Cervical Cancer? The primary cause is persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) , a common virus that spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. Vaccination: Your First Line of Defense HPV vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended for girls between 9-14 years (can be given up to 26 years). These...
Read more

Radiation Treatment: A Vital Component of Cancer Cure

Image
Radiation therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of cancer, often working alongside surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy to enhance the chances of a successful recovery. This method uses high doses of radiation to target and destroy cancer cells, with the goal of shrinking tumors and eliminating malignant cells that may have spread to other parts of the body. How Radiation Works Cancer cells, unlike healthy cells, tend to grow and divide uncontrollably. Radiation works by damaging the DNA inside these cells, preventing them from growing and reproducing. While radiation can affect healthy cells as well, they typically recover more effectively than cancer cells, which are more sensitive to the damaging effects of radiation. Types of Radiation Therapy There are two primary types of radiation therapy: External Beam Radiation : This is the most common type, where a machine directs high-energy rays at the tumor from outside the body. The patient typically lies still on a treatment...
Read more

"Healing from Within: The Wonders of Brachytherapy"

Image
  Brachytherapy: Overview and Benefits for cancer patients What is Brachytherapy? Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiation therapy where radioactive sources are placed directly inside or near a tumor. It delivers a high dose of radiation to the target area while sparing surrounding healthy tissues. Uses of Brachytherapy Brachytherapy is commonly used in the treatment of various cancers, including: Gynecological cancers (e.g., cervical, uterine, vaginal cancers) Prostate cancer Breast cancer Head and neck cancers Esophageal cancer Soft tissue sarcomas Advantages of Brachytherapy Precise Treatment: Localized radiation minimizes damage to healthy tissues and organs. Shorter Treatment Duration: Treatment is often completed within a few sessions compared to weeks for external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). High Success Rates: Offers excellent control of the disease in localized cancers. Minimal Side Effects: Reduce...
Read more