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Complications
By Mayo Clinic staffNasopharyngeal carcinoma frequently spreads (metastasizes) beyond the nasopharynx. Most people with nasopharyngeal carcinoma have regional metastases, meaning cancer cells from the initial tumor have migrated to nearby areas, such as lymph nodes in the neck. Cancer cells that spread beyond the head and neck (distant metastases) most commonly travel to the bones and bone marrow, lungs and liver.
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma may also cause paraneoplastic syndromes. In these rare disorders, the cancer produces substances that cause changes in other parts of your body. The changes aren't a direct effect of cancer cells, however. Paraneoplastic syndromes may cause high levels of certain white blood cells in your blood, neurological problems or joint problems. Once your cancer is treated, your doctor may prescribe medications to control your immune system.
