Neuroendocrine Tumors of the Larynx: Four Cases

Lee, Yong Sik; Kim, Kwang Il; Kim, Hun Dae; Kwon, Young Jo

Abstract

Neuroendocrine neoplasms of the larynx arise from APUD (amine precursor uptake and decarboxylase) cells. Neuroendocrine neoplasms of the larynx canbe divided into those of epithelial or neural origin. The latter consists of paragangliomas while the group of the epithelial origin can be further divided into typical and atypical carcinoids, and small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma, which consist of the oat cell type, the intermediate cell type and the combined cell type. There are now over 500 cases of neuroendocrine neoplasms of the larynx reported in the literature. The diagnosis is primarily based on light microscopy and; in some instances, it may be supported by special histochemical studies. It should be confirmed by immunocytochemical and/or ultrastructural investigation. The different biological behavior of neuroendocrine neoplasms of the larynx makes a specific diagnosis of paramount importance, since treatment depends on accurate diagnosis. We experienced 4 cases of neuroendocrine carcinoma of the larynx, and which we report with a review of literatures.