Carcinoma Hypopharynx in Pregnancy: A Multidisciplinary Team Triumph

Cancer complicates approximately 0.1% of all pregnancies. The incidence of cancer in pregnancy has increased, as many women are planning pregnancies at an older age. Cancers of breast, melanoma, hematologic, cervix/uterus and thyroid are the more common invasive cancers diagnosed in pregnancy. Head and neck cancers during pregnancy are uncommon. Also the symptoms are non-specific and commonly mimic the usual pregnancy symptoms such as hyperemesis and so tend to be missed. The management of head and neck cancers during pregnancy necessitates a deeper understanding of the effects of pregnancy on cancer and vice versa, and the effect of diagnostic and treatment modalities on pregnancy. A multidisciplinary approach is needed to enable parents and clinicians to make the best clinical decision. We present one such case of this rare carcinoma in pregnancy which presented with hyperemesis. A detailed workup revealed carcinoma hypopharynx which was successfully managed with a multidisciplinary team effort. Through this case, we want to emphasize the need to have a high index of suspicion for atypical symptoms in pregnancy and a low threshold for further investigations. Early diagnosis and appropriate management will result in positive maternal and fetal outcomes.