PRIMARY NON-HODGKINS-LYMPHOMA OF THE LARYNX

Three cases of primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the larynx are descri bed. Histologically, two tumours belonged to the category of low grade B-cell lymphomas of the small cell type (extranodal marginal zone B-c ell lymphoma and lymphoplasmacytoid lymphoma), and the third was class ified as a peripheral T-cell lymphoma of unspecified type. The clinica l stage was IE in two cases, and IV in another case. In two cases, com plete remission was obtained with radical radiotherapy. But in the oth er case, which was histologically lympheplasmacytoid lymphoma, the res ponse to radiotherapy was poor, and surgery was required. There was no relapse subsequent to treatment. Primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of th e larynx is rare. Several reported cases have clinical features simila r to these of MALT-type lymphomas arising in other extranodal sites. A lthough most of the reported cases have been cured with radiotherapy, in some cases dissemination to other extranodal sites may occur. There fore careful periodic evaluation is imperative.