A 45-year-old male presents with progressive dysphagia and a sensation of a lump in the throat. Imaging reveals a mass in the postcricoid region. Which of the following is the most common histological subtype of carcinoma in this location?
- A Squamous cell carcinoma ✓
- B Adenocarcinoma
- C Small cell carcinoma
- D Lymphoma
Correct answer: A. Squamous cell carcinoma
Explanation
The postcricoid region is part of the hypopharynx, and squamous cell carcinoma is by far the most common histological subtype in this location, accounting for the vast majority of hypopharyngeal malignancies. Risk factors include smoking, alcohol, and Plummer-Vinson syndrome (which is associated with postcricoid carcinoma in women). Adenocarcinoma is rare in the hypopharynx and would suggest a minor salivary gland origin.
Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 28th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.