Cervical Chordoma with Retropharyngeal Extension Presenting with Impaired Voice

Abstract

Aims and Background

We report an extremely rare case of cervical chordoma presenting with impaired voice.

Method

Case report and a review of the literature concerning the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of a cervical chordoma.

Results

A singing teacher complaining of dysphonia was examined and surgically treated for a retropharyngeal extension of a cervical chordoma. A local recurrence was treated with proton beam therapy. Among primary malignant tumors of bone, chordomas account for 3–4% of all cases. Chordoma is typically a locally aggressive tumor with a high propensity for local recurrence. Its management involves surgery, radiotherapy, or both.

Conclusion

To our knowledge this is the first report in the world literature of a retropharyngeal extension of a cervical chordoma presenting with impaired voice. This case indicates that bony tumors of the spine may present first to voice-disorder clinicians. Increased awareness of this neoplasm may lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment.