Home > Encyclopedia of Cancer > Nasopharyngeal Cancer

Definition

Nasopharyngeal cancer is an uncontrolled growth of cells that begins in the nasopharynx, the passageway at the back of the nose.

Description

The nasopharynx connects the nose (hence, naso) to the pharynx, the shared passageway for air and food at the back of the nose and mouth. Air moves through the pharynx on its way into and out of the trachea, the tube that carries air to the lungs. Food passes through the pharynx on its way to the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food to the stomach.

Although it is possible for people to breathe through the mouth, breathing through the nose is better. The nose warms and moistens air, and the interior of the nose has hairs to filter...