Ear, Nose & Throat1 UKMLA question
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma — UKMLA Revision Notes
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is an important clinical condition in Ear, Nose & Throat that is tested in the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test (AKT). Medical students and doctors preparing for the UKMLA or PLAB 1 must understand the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, investigations, and evidence-based management of Nasopharyngeal carcinoma as outlined in current NICE guidelines.
Key Facts
- Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a key condition on the GMC UKMLA Content Map
- Commonly tested in the Ear, Nose & Throat section of the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test
- Understand the pathophysiology, clinical features, investigations, and management
- NICE guidelines provide the evidence base for management decisions
- Consider differential diagnoses and red flag symptoms in clinical scenarios
Investigations
- Otoscopy
- Audiometry
- Nasal endoscopy
- CT sinuses/neck
- FBC, CRP
- Throat swab
Management
- Analgesia and symptomatic relief
- Antibiotics if bacterial infection confirmed
- Nasal decongestants/saline irrigation
- ENT outpatient follow-up
- Audiological assessment
- Surgical referral if indicated