[Cartilaginous tumors of the cricoid: imaging diagnosis. A case report]

Abstract

Cartilaginous tumors of the larynx are rare; although chondromas are the most frequent of these tumors. Laryngeal chondrosarcomas are even rarer, in spite of this being the most frequent histological variety of sarcoma (less than 1% of all malignant laryngeal tumors). These tumors are slow-growing, locally aggressive, and tend to recur. They are less aggressive in the larynx than in other sites: cervical or distant metastases are rare (8.5%) and recurrences often can be controlled. The most common presenting symptom is hoarseness with normal indirect laryngoscopy. The complementary studies of choice are computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The role of these imaging techniques in the study of laryngeal chondroma and chondrosarcoma was examined. These sporadic tumors may be overlooked, although early identification is necessary for effective treatment.