Abstract
Objective: Neuroendocrine neoplasms of the larynx (NNL), although rare, are the most common nonsquamous tumors of this organ. The aim of the study is to evaluate the presentation, treatment, and outcome of a consecutive series of 15 patients with NNL of the larynx and to provide information for therapeutic decision making.
Method: Retrospective analysis of medical records. Cases were identified from databases maintained by the medical informatics and pathology departments. Main outcome measures were recurrence, overall survival, and disease-specific survival (OS and DSS).
Results: Fifteen patients (12 males) seen between 1990 and 2009, with a median age of 56.7 years. Seven patients had the diagnosis of moderately differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma, and 8 were diagnosed as small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. Multimodal treatment was established in 13 (92.8%) patients. Eight patients underwent surgical treatment. Neck node metastases developed in 6 patients (42.5%), and distant metastases occurred in 12 patients (80%). Cause of death was distant metastases in 11 patients (73.3%). At last follow-up, only two patients were alive. The 3-year OS and DSS were, respectively, 35.7% and 28.5%.
Conclusion: Laryngeal neuroendocrine malignant neoplasms (LNMN) are aggressive malignancies with a high frequency of distant metastasis. The optimal therapy for patients with LNMN remains a subject of debate.
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