Can a blood test detect nasopharyngeal cancer? Is there anything I should pay attention to?

Can blood tests detect nasopharyngeal cancer? What should we pay attention to?

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a malignant tumor that originates from the epithelium covering the nasopharyngeal mucosa. It is one of the most common malignant tumors in my country, with a high frequency of malignant transformation and an average natural survival time of 18.7. It is insidious and difficult to detect in the early stage.

Can a blood test detect nasopharyngeal cancer?

1. EB virus serological test: The commonly used immunoenzymatic method is to detect the IgA/VCA and IgA/EA antibody titers of EB virus. The former has high sensitivity and low accuracy. The latter is just the opposite.

2. Patients suspected of NPC should undergo two antibody tests at the same time, which is helpful for early diagnosis. IgA/VCA titer ≥1:40 and/or IgA/EA titer ≥1:5. Even if there is no abnormality in the nasopharynx, cells or biopsies should be taken from the NPC-prone area. If the diagnosis has not been confirmed yet, regular follow-up should be performed, and multiple biopsy examinations should be performed if necessary.

3. Patients can have blood tests for Epstein-Barr virus antibodies and VCA-IgA antibodies, which can help diagnose nasopharyngeal carcinoma. However, blood tests are not a diagnostic test for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Generally speaking, a diagnosis requires taking a portion of tissue for pathological biopsy under a nasopharyngeal endoscope. If cancer cells are found, a clear diagnosis can be made.

What should we pay attention to in case of nasopharyngeal cancer?

1. Pay attention to climate changes, prevent colds, maintain nasopharyngeal hygiene, and avoid viral infections.

2. Try to avoid inhaling harmful fumes, such as kerosene lamps, pesticides, etc., and actively quit smoking and drinking.

3. If you have nasopharyngeal diseases, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you find blood in your nasal discharge or blood in your nasal discharge after sniffing, swollen lymph nodes in your neck, effusion in your middle ear, and other unexplained conditions, you should have a detailed nasopharyngeal examination in a timely manner.