CHONDROSARCOMA OF THE LARYNX - CHALLENGES IN DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT

Chondrosarcoma is a rare neoplasm of the larynx with approximately 200 cases reported in the literature. The infrequent occurrence of this n eoplasm, and its indolent pattern of growth, can result in a delayed o r missed diagnosis, thereby jeopardizing the preservation of laryngeal function. Four cases of chondrosarcoma of the larynx are presented de monstrating the challenges in the diagnosis and management of this neo plasm. Conservation surgery remains the mainstay of therapy aiming tow ards preservation of the framework and function of the larynx. Two inn ovative reconstructive techniques are presented which made conservatio n laryngeal surgery possible in two of the four patients. Indeed, surg ical resection with sound oncologic principles must be applied and tot al laryngectomy may be necessary. On rare occasion radiotherapy may be used, although its value remains controversial.