Laryngeal myxoma: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Myxomas are a rare benign neoplasm of uncertain mesenchymal cell origin, typically involving the heart. Laryngeal myxomas are uncommon, and are usually misdiagnosed as laryngeal polyp. To the best of our knowledge, there are only nine reported cases in the English literature. We report a case of a laryngeal myxoma presenting clinically as a left vocal cord polyp in a 77 year old male, and review the literature related to this rare entity.

Fig. 1

Stoboscope images showing, a bilateral fullness in the vocal cords consistent with Reinke’s edema. b In the mid-cord there is an erythematous fullness. Stroboscopically there was decreased mucosal wave and vibration of both vocal folds

Fig. 2

Histological features of a laryngeal myxoma. a Low power view showing the polypoid nature of the myxoma. b Scant vascularity with abundant spindle cells in a background of myxoid material. c High power demonstrating the stellate cells with branching cytoplasmic processes and bland nuclear features