Aggressive angiomyxoma of larynx: case report and literature review

Abstract

Objective: We report the second known case of aggressive angiomyxoma of the larynx.

Method: Case report and a review of the world literature concerning angiomyxoma of the larynx and recent advances in the immunohistochemical, cytogenic and clinical study of its female pelvic counterpart.

Results: Aggressive angiomyxoma is a rare mesenchymal tumour originally thought only to occur in the female pelvis and peritoneum, or rarely in the male genital tract. A 47-year-old man presented with a one-month history of dysphonia. He was found to have a supraglottic mass on endoscopic examination, and underwent a laryngofissure approach excision biopsy and covering tracheostomy. Histological analysis showed a characteristic proliferation of spindle cells widely separated by loose, myxoid stroma with a prominent vascular component. Aggressive angiomyxoma was diagnosed.

Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the second report in the world literature of aggressive angiomyxoma of the larynx. Comparison with the female pelvic counterpart facilitates diagnosis, aided by recent advances, and suggests that complete surgical excision with a wide margin is the treatment of choice.