Nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Saudi Arabia: clinical presentation and diagnostic delay

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is commonly advanced at diagnosis. In this study we evaluated the clinical presentation, diagnostic delay and factors affecting delay in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Data were collected prospectively for 307 newly diagnosed patients, including detailed demographic data, disease history, health care consultations and referral process. Diagnostic delay was classified as patient, professional and overall. Neck lump and nasal obstruction were the commonest presenting symptoms. There was a significant association between delay time of > or = 3 months and advanced stage. Patient's age and otological symptoms were associated with increased overall delay time. Advanced clinical stage at diagnosis was associated with paitents' sociodemographic characteristics.