Atypical Presentations of Laryngeal Cancers: Diagnostic and Treatment Dilemmas

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Larynx is a complex organ with various subsites and a myriad of pathologies. Atypical presentations of laryngeal cancers are rare with literature only in the form of case reports or series with small number of patients. Aim of study It is important to recognize rare presentations of laryngeal carcinomas in order to pre-empt misdiagnosis and execute an appropriate treatment plan. Materials and methods We present a case series of four such atypical presentations which were managed with precise and individualized approaches. Results Three patients with rare manifestations of laryngeal squamous cancers were treated surgically in view of gross exolaryngeal spread. Single case of melanoma was treated with chemoradiation followed by surgical salvage. Conclusion All four patients were identified through adequate diagnostic precision on part of the clinician. Clinical implications The form and function of the larynx are crucial to the quality of life of a patient. Laryngeal carcinomas require appropriate treatment approach to ensure the same. The clinician needs to be aware of these atypical presentations as well in order to diagnose and treat these patients effectively. How to cite this article Dabholkar J, Kapre NM, Bihani A. Atypical Presentations of Laryngeal Cancers: Diagnostic and Treatment Dilemmas. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2015;5(2):53-56.