[Profile of cancers of the hypopharynx in Senegal]

A retrospective study of carcinomas of the hypopharynx was conducted to examine the epidemiological and clinical features of this cancer in Senegal. An analysis of 66 cases showed a very particular distribution in Senegal with more female (57.6%) than male cases. Average age at diagnosis was 33 years. Advanced cancer (T3-T4) was noted in 65% of the cases, but the first physical examination noted the absence of cervical nodes in 53.6% of the cases. Location at the piriform sinus was observed in 41% of the cases, followed by the posterior wall of the hypopharynx (25.7%). Chronic anemia with iron deficiency was seen in 30% of the cases, probably an important etiological factor of the cancer in Senegal. This point would be the goal of a future prospective study.