Chondroid tumors of the larynx: Computed tomography findings

Purpose: Chondromas and chondrosarcomas of the larynx are rare cartilaginou s tumors making up less than 1% of all laryngeal tumors. Patients typically present with symptoms of hoarseness, dysphagia, or dyspnea. The most commo n location in the larynx for these tumors is the cricoid cartilage. Radiogr aphically, these lesions are typically hypodense, well-circumscribed masses containing mottled calcifications with smooth walls centered within the ca rtilage. Materials and Methods: We present 6 cases of chondroid tumors of the larynx . Results: One patient had a chondroma, 4 patients had low-grade chondrosarco mas, and 1 patient had an intermediate-grade chondrosarcoma. Two partial la ryngeal resections and 4 total laryngectomies were performed. Conclusions: In most cases of chondroma or chondrosarcoma of the larynx, co nservative surgery should be attempted, but total laryngectomy may be requi red for large or recurrent lesions. Copyright a 1999 by W.B. Saunders Compa ny.