A 55-year-old male presents with a 3-month history of hoarseness. He is a heavy smoker (30 pack-years) and consumes approximately 30 units of alcohol ...

Question

A 55-year-old male presents with a 3-month history of hoarseness. He is a heavy smoker (30 pack-years) and consumes approximately 30 units of alcohol per week. There are no other associated symptoms like dysphagia, weight loss, or neck lumps. According to NICE NG12 (Suspected cancer: recognition and referral), what is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Urgent direct laryngoscopy within 2 weeks

Answer

Reassure and advise voice rest for 2 weeks

Answer

Prescribe a course of proton pump inhibitors

Answer

Refer for urgent chest X-ray

Answer

Speech and language therapy assessment

ukmla MCQ (SBA): Hoarseness (Suspected Laryngeal Cancer)