Chondrosarcoma of the Epiglottis: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Laryngeal chondrosarcoma (LCS) is an exceedingly rare malignancy and least frequently reported in the epiglottis.

Methods and results: We report a case of a 71-year-old male smoker who presented with sore throat, dysphagia, and odynophagia for 3 months. Computed tomography scan revealed an inhomogeneously enhancing necrotic mass emanating from the right epiglottis and traveling along the aryepiglottic fold. The mass was removed via endoscopic en bloc laser resection. Histopathological examination of the biopsied specimen confirmed low-grade LCS of the epiglottis.

Conclusion: Differentiating low-grade LCS from laryngeal chondroma is a challenging task with an increased risk of potential misdiagnosis. This case study reinforces the need for a histopathological examination in forming the basis for ongoing management and follow-up observations. Timely surgery remains the optimal, primary means of treatment notwithstanding the rarity of LCS.

Keywords: Cartilaginous neoplasm; Chondroma; Chondrosarcoma; Epiglottic mass; Laryngeal tumor.