Extramedullary plasmacytoma of the larynx in an adolescent: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Extramedullary plasmacytoma is uncommon, accounting for only 3% of all plasma cell neoplasms. Most lesions occur in the head and neck, primarily in the upper aerodigestive tract; only a minority occur in the larynx. Most cases of extramedullary plasmacytoma are seen in older men; presentation in an adolescent is rare. We report the case of a 13-year-old girl who presented with a 2- to 3-month history of progressive dysphonia. Physical examination identified two lesions--a nasopharyngeal mass and a laryngeal mass. Biopsy indicated that the masses were extramedullary plasmacytomas with amyloid deposition. The patient was treated with radiation therapy, and the tumors were eradicated. We also review the literature with respect to the epidemiology and presentation of extramedullary plasmacytoma of the head and neck, specifically those that affect the larynx.