Dr Ronald Chins Perspective on Malignant Tumours of the Nasopharynx: A Specialist’s Guide
What Are Malignant Tumours of the Nasopharynx?
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a rare cancer affecting the upper part of the throat behind the nose. It is more common in Southeast Asia, North Africa, and Indigenous populations, and is strongly linked to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
Key Symptoms:
- Persistent nasal congestion or nosebleeds
- Lump in the neck (often a swollen lymph node)
- Unilateral hearing loss or ear fullness
- Frequent ear infections in adults
- Headaches or facial numbness
Risk Factors:
- EBV infection
- High intake of salted or preserved foods
- Family history of NPC
- Smoking and alcohol
Diagnosis & Treatment:
Diagnosis involves nasendoscopy, imaging (CT/MRI), biopsy, and EBV testing. Treatment typically includes radiotherapy, often combined with chemotherapy. Surgery is rare but may be used in recurrent cases.
Why Early Detection Matters:
Early-stage NPC has an excellent prognosis, with 5-year survival rates over 80%. Persistent ENT symptoms should be assessed by an ENT specialist promptly.
- About the Author
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Dr Ronald Chin is an Australian trained Otolaryngologist Head and Neck Surgeon.
After graduating as a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Dr Chin undertook further specialised training in Head and Neck Cancer at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
He has published many research papers and is an active teacher and scholar.
As part of his subspecialty training, Dr Chin has training in Laser, Da Vinci Robotic, Flex Robotic and complex surgical techniques.
In addition to specialised Head and Neck Cancer, Dr Chin also enjoys general adult and paediatric ENT Surgery and practices sinus, snoring/sleep and general paediatric ENT Surgical procedures.
Dr Ronald Chin works as a general Otolaryngologist, offering a wide range of surgical and non-surgical treatments including ear surgery, nose surgery and throat surgery. He provides treatment for chronic conditions such as tonsillitis, sinus problems and problems with hearing.
He is also involved in the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions such as facial paralysis, head and neck cancer and sleep apnea. As well as performing surgery on children, he also provides specialist care for adults, including the treatment of throat disorders, voice loss and ear problems.
Dr Chin has also served as a Conjoint Associate Professor at the University of Sydney, a Conjoint Associate Professor at Western Sydney University and an Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Technology Sydney.
