[Chondromas and low-grade chondrosarcomas of the larynx: a case report]

Abstract

Objective: We report a case of cricoid chondroma, underlining the difficulty in establishing a precise differential diagnosis between chondroma and low-grade chondrosarcoma of the larynx.

Material and methods: A 48-year-old woman developed inspiratory dyspnea. The final diagnosis was cricoid chondroma. We reviewed our case and data in the literature on these cartilaginous tumors.

Results: The patient was treated with conservative surgery. At 18 months follow-up, no recurrence has been detected.

Discussion: These tumors are rarely found in an ENT location and have similar histological features. According to many authors, the clinical course alone enables a distinction between chondroma and low-grade chondrosarcoma. Surgical treatment is indicated and provides good phonatory function in the vast majority of the cases.