Spindle cell carcinomaof the larynx: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Introduction Spindle cell carcinoma (SCC), also called sarcomatoid carcinoma or carcinosarcoma, represents a rare variant of squamous cell carcinoma that may involve multiple organs, including the larynx. It is a mixed tumor, composed of both malignant epithelial and mesenchymal elements. As the larynx appears to be an unusual site, we report a case of treated SCC laryngeal as well as a literature review of such tumor. Observation A 72-year-old male, with 2 months’ history of a progressive worsening dysphonia, was examined. The patient examination showed no cervical adenopathy, while direct laryngoscopy detected a voluminous budding formation of the anterior commissure. A biopsy was performed, in which an undifferentiated carcinoma was identified. The computed tomography (CT) confirmed the existence of a glottic tumor, which completely obstructs the lumen of the larynx. No metastasis were noticed elsewhere on the PET-CT. The tumor was then classified as T3 N0 M0. The patient underwent a total laryngectomy, thyroidectomy and neck dissection. The definitive histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of SCC of the larynx with negative surgical margins. Afterward, the patient underwent adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) on the tumor bed. Conclusion Primary laryngeal SCC is a very rare malignancy with a tendency to occur with controlateral lymph node metastasis at an early stage of the disease. Combining surgery and postoperative RT is recommended due to its aggressive profile.