Pseudosarcoma of the larynx: a comprehensive analysis

Abstract

Pseudosarcoma of the larynx is a rare and controversial malignant neoplasm. The presence of a squamous cell carcinoma contiguous with an anaplastic-appearing spindle cell stroma constitutes the distinctive histopathologic appearance of this tumor. Laryngeal pseudosarcoma is most commonly seen as a polypoid glottic mass. Prognosis is best for this lesion and less favorable for sessile tumors and for supraglottic or hypopharyngeal involvement. The tumor demonstrates a biologic behavior similar to squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx, with local aggressiveness and metastatic capability to regional lymphatics and distant sites. Surgery is the treatment of choice, even for T1 glottic lesions, as radiation therapy is associated with a high local recurrence rate.